1. Chinese Mine Warfare: A PLA Navy 'Assassin's Mace' Capability
- Author:
- Andrew S. Erickson, William S. Murray, and Lyle J. Goldstein
- Publication Date:
- 06-2009
- Content Type:
- Special Report
- Institution:
- China Maritime Studies Institute, U.S. Naval War College
- Abstract:
- After a lengthy hiatus-lasting nearly six centuries—China is reemerging as a maritime power, this time with an emphasis on undersea warfare. Between 1996 and 2006, the Chinese navy took delivery of more than thirty submarines. These vessels include two new classes of nuclear submarines-the advanced Song-class diesel submarines and the Yuan class of diesel boats which, according to some reports, was a surprise for U.S. intelligence. Above and beyond this ambitious naval construction pro- gram, the People's Republic of China (PRC) received during 2005-06 an additional eight formidable Kilo-class submarines (and associated weaponry), which were purchased in 2002, to add to the four it already operated. A new nuclear submarine base on Hainan Island may well herald a new era of more extended Chinese submarine operations.
- Topic:
- Armed Forces, Navy, Submarines, and Mine Warfare
- Political Geography:
- China, Asia, and United States of America