In a major maritime maneuver, China’s most advanced amphibious assault vessel, the Type 075, has recently been spotted traversing the first island chain and entering the western Pacific Ocean, signaling its return to the area after more than a year.
On August 19, Japan’s Joint Staff Office reported that the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) spotted an amphibious assault ship of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy on August 17.
The ship, identified as a PLA Navy Type 075 amphibious assault ship, was spotted along with a Type 052 series destroyer as they sailed through the waters between Okinawa and Miyako.
The Ministry of Defense and the Self-Defense Forces responded to the sighting, with the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s 8th Escort Squadron, known as Kirisame, tasked with warning surveillance and information gathering.
The appearance of Type 075 in this region is significant, as it has been more than a year since such a vessel was last seen in the western Pacific near the first island chain — a strategic series of archipelagos extending from the Japanese mainland through Taiwan and the Philippines.
The last recorded deployment of a Type 075 in the western Pacific was in July of the previous year. During that time, the Guangxi, one of the three Type 075 vessels in service, made headlines for sailing from the East China Sea into Japanese waters through the Osumi Strait off Kagoshima prefecture. That marked a notable occasion as it was the first time a Type 075 had entered Japanese territorial waters.
Earlier in March of the same year, the Type 075 amphibious assault ship Guangxi participated in its inaugural far-seas drills in the western Pacific, engaging in a 30-day live-fire exercise that highlighted its operational capabilities.
The Type 075 is the latest and largest class of landing helicopter dock amphibious assault ship in the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy’s fleet. It features a full-length flight deck that can accommodate up to six helicopters simultaneously, with a total capacity for around 30 rotary-wing aircraft.
Displacing 35,000 tons and measuring approximately 780 feet in length with a 118-foot beam and 27-foot draft, the Type 075 is a formidable asset. Its flight deck also includes a smaller area for drones on the starboard side.
The vessel is equipped with both a stern elevator for transferring two medium helicopters and a smaller forward elevator for one.
Designed to facilitate aviation and amphibious operations from sea to shore, the Type 075 enhances the PLA Navy’s ability to project power and support forces on land.
China’s Amphibious Ship Expands Reach Near Taiwan
China’s recent deployment of its advanced amphibious assault ship underscores the nation’s strategic effort to enhance its naval presence and expand its operational capabilities in the Pacific area.
The vessel’s presence in this area, particularly east of Taiwan, is of considerable strategic importance for amphibious operations.
Most nations, including the United States, do not formally recognize Taiwan’s independence, yet Washington strongly opposes any forceful attempt to seize the island and remains committed to providing military support for its defense.
A military analyst from Beijing explained that the region is crucial for amphibious forces due to its proximity to Taiwan, a territory Beijing views as integral to its domain and is determined to unify with the mainland, even by force if necessary.
While Taiwan’s eastern coast lacks suitable landing sites for traditional amphibious vessels, the Type 075 assault ship is equipped to facilitate vertical landings through its extensive helicopter capacity, making it a viable platform for potential landing operations in this area.
On August 19, Taiwan’s defense authority reported that two PLA helicopters were observed operating east of the island. However, no details were provided regarding the presence of Type 075 in the region or whether these helicopters were launched from the ship or another vessel.
Overall, the Type 075, along with the larger Type 076 currently under construction, will be crucial for any Chinese military strategy involving Taiwan. These vessels will also play significant roles in disputes in the South China Sea and in conducting blue water operations beyond the first island chain.
According to Song Zhongping, a former PLA instructor and military commentator, the recent sightings should not be seen as cause for concern. He characterized the deployment as a routine activity essential for training and operational readiness.
Song explained that China’s expanding naval capabilities, including both aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships, are designed for deployment across diverse environments, not just along its coast.
The Type 075’s deployment across various regions, including the South China Sea and near Japan, reflects the fleet’s need to adapt to different operational settings. This deployment also provides valuable experience for the crew and the PLA Marine Corps, helping them gain critical sea time and operational experience.
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