China's Amphibious Assault Ship: A Symbol of Rapid Naval Expansion

China is rapidly constructing the world’s largest amphibious assault ship on Changxing Island, Shanghai. Named the 076 Class or 'Yunan' class, it is expected to launch by 2025. This swift progress highlights Beijing's military expansion, stirring concerns about potential conflicts, especially regarding Taiwan. The U.S. remains on alert, monitoring China's shipbuilding progress.

In a newly built drydock on China's Changxing Island Shipbuilding Base outside Shanghai, the world's largest amphibious assault ship has sprung from nothing to an imposing hull that experts say might launch as soon as 2025.

If that assessment derived from satellite photos proves correct, the construction of China's first 076 Class assault ship – dubbed the "Yunan" class – will be yet another reminder of the breakneck speed of Beijing's military buildup. It is bringing one of the world's largest warships into existence in less time than it currently takes U.S. or European shipyards to refit a much smaller ageing frigate or destroyer.

It will also likely stoke the fears of those who believe Beijing is now preparing in earnest for a major conflict, most likely one sparked by a deliberate invasion of Taiwan. According to U.S. officials, Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered his military to be ready to conduct that operation by 2027 – a suggestion Beijing denies – but has not yet made a firm decision to launch military action.

(With inputs from agencies.)