China sets date for launch of first Type 075 amphibious helicopter assault ship, sources say
- Maritime safety administrators close area in Shanghai shipyard on Thursday morning
- Military analyst says launch will be first step toward significant expansion of fighting capabilities
China will launch its first Type 075 amphibious helicopter assault ship at a shipyard in Shanghai on Thursday, sources said.
The Maritime Safety Administration issued a notice on Monday that said an area about 1,500 metres (4,921 feet) long by 350 metres wide around No 4 pier of the Hudong-Zhonghua yard would be shut to traffic between 11.30am and 1pm.
Photographs taken in recent months by military enthusiasts near the yard suggested that construction of the hull and superstructure of the Type 075, which is estimated to have a displacement of 40,000 tonnes, was proceeding quickly.
Song Zhongping, a Hong Kong-based military affairs commentator, said the Type 075 would significantly expand China’s amphibious warfare capabilities when it entered service.
“Compared with China’s Type 071, the new Type 075 can accommodate more transport and attack helicopters and, in coordination with surface-effect ships [fast boats to deploy troops], could demonstrate greater attack capabilities [than the Type 071], especially for island assault missions,” Song said.