China sends secret Type 076 drone carrier to sea
Sichuancun drone carrier (Photo: Xinhua)
China has sent its newest landing ship Sichuan, which is being called a drone carrier, into the South China Sea. The vessel has set out to conduct important trials in an area of high military tension, as the US and the Philippines are holding their own exercises in the region, reports the South China Morning Post.
The appearance of the Sichuan at this moment does not look accidental, the post notes. The official Weibo account of the Chinese Navy released details:
"The Sichuan, our country’s first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, has set sail from Shanghai for relevant waters in the South China Sea to carry out scientific research trials and training missions, testing the performance of multiple on-board systems and platforms."
The Chinese military is trying to lower the temperature in its statements. In a brief message, they added:
"This is a routine cross-regional trial and training exercise organised in accordance with the vessel’s overall construction plan and is not directed at any specific target."
Secret weapon of the Type 076
Sichuan is not just an amphibious assault ship, but a next-level vessel. It is considered a key tool for a future operation against Taiwan. The ship underwent its first sea trials back in November.
What this giant can carry:
- A large number of strike and reconnaissance drones;
- Landing craft and armored vehicles;
- Helicopters and support aircraft;
- Marine corps units.
The ship is designed to provide an advantage during amphibious landings. The presence of catapults or special systems for UAVs makes it unique in its class.
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