Satellite imagery indicates China is constructing a large, specialized PLAN auxiliary with a well deck and cradle-like semi-submersible platform intended to launch and recover very large uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs). If confirmed, it represents a notable operational enabler for sustained UUV deployment, maintenance, and potentially modular payload handling at sea.
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navalside: chinafirst seen 2026-04-01
China builds large PLAN mothership for launching/recovering big UUVs
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SOURCES
- The War Zone · https://www.twz.com/sea/new-evidence-china-is-building-a-massive-mothership-for-drone-submarinesNew Evidence China Is Building A Mothership For Large Uncrewed Submarines