Images on Chinese internet reveal a cargo ship packed with missile launchers. This vessel, named Zhong Da 79, is medium-sized and equipped with Vertical Launch Systems (VLS) within its deck containers. Many containers are structured to launch missiles. Experts suggest this could signify a new strategy to boost China's naval strength.
This ship houses about 60 significant VLS cells, arrayed in series of five wide and three deep. Each container includes four launch tubes, amounting to two-thirds the missile capability of the U.S. Navy's Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. These cells might contain anti-ship missiles, land-attack cruise missiles, or air defense missiles.
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At the front, a large rotating phased-array radar dominates, atop three containers, alongside a domed radar or communication system. The leading section features a Type 1130 CIWS (Close-In Weapon System), a 30mm gun used against incoming missiles or drones. Below, Type 726 decoy launchers release chaff and flares to mislead adversaries.
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Source: aajtak
This ship is stationed at a Shanghai shipyard. Satellite images indicate refurbishments from April to August 2025. Expert Rick Jo notes that humorous text on containers is unusual for serious PLA projects. Some speculate this might just be a mockup, not a fully operational vessel. However, radar and CIWS fittings appear robust.
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China possesses the largest global commercial fleet. By arming these vessels, they can become formidable in war, striking unexpectedly while concealed within standard traffic. This arsenal ship concept uses affordable platforms to harbor numerous missiles.
Source: aajtak
China has previously adapted commercial vessels as helicopter carriers or for island assaults. While the U.S. works on containerized weapons, China's shipbuilding speed exceeds. Experts view this as a rising challenge for the U.S. and its allies.
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Questions remain. Will this ship engage in combat? How will its systems integrate? Is weaponizing commercial ships legally aligned with wartime protocols? Discussions on these issues are expected to continue. Last Christmas, China leaked images of new stealth jets, perhaps a festive revelation.
