World’s Largest Navy Adds Two New Hovercrafts To Its Fleet

China has taken significant steps to strengthen its maritime capabilities by adding two Zubr-class amphibious assault hovercraft to its navy. These new hovercraft, known for their impressive size and capabilities, are set to bolster China’s military prowess in the Pacific region.

The Zubr-class hovercraft is the largest worldwide, measuring 187 feet long and displacing 555 tons when fully loaded. Its primary objective is the swift transportation of troops and equipment, allowing for efficient amphibious landings and rapid deployment.

The hovercraft ensures formidable defence capabilities, equipped with two anti-air missile batteries and two mounted Gatling guns. This armament provides firepower and protection for troops and equipment during operations.

The Zubr-class hovercraft boasts impressive carrying capacity, accommodating three main battle tanks or up to ten armored personnel carriers. Alternatively, it can swiftly ferry approximately 300 Marines or a combination of troops and equipment to the desired destination.

Video Credit: Straight Arrow News

With five gas turbines propelling it forward, the hovercraft can achieve speeds over 50 knots and cover a range of approximately 500 kilometres. This enhanced mobility enables rapid response and flexibility in various maritime scenarios.

Tensions have been escalating between China and countries with vested interests in the Pacific, particularly regarding Taiwan. China seeks to reunify Taiwan with the mainland, while the United States, although not officially recognizing Taiwan as a separate nation, maintains a strong unofficial relationship and offers military support.

In response to the evolving geopolitical landscape, the U.S. Marine Corps is undergoing a significant restructuring known as “Force Design 2030.” This restructuring emphasizes enhancing island-hopping capabilities in coastal and island environments.

Under this plan, two Marine littoral regiments will be assigned to the Pacific. At the same time, a third will be deployed to the Baltic region to address potential conflicts involving China and Russia.

These regiments are designed to engage threats in their operational domains swiftly. They are equipped with advanced technology such as electronic warfare sensors, drone jamming capabilities, and anti-ship and air-defence missiles.

The Marine Corps’ strategic shift prioritizes speed and agility, replacing traditional tanks and artillery with cutting-edge missile systems and unmanned drones. Procurements include HIMARS rocket systems and NEMESIS robotic vehicles armed with the Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile.

These advancements enable the Marine Corps to respond to threats in littoral and island environments effectively, significantly enhancing their response capabilities and versatility.

As tensions rise and regional dynamics evolve, China and the United States take proactive measures to reinforce their maritime capabilities. The addition of the Zubr-class hovercraft to China’s navy and the Marine Corps Force Design 2030 restructuring demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a robust presence in strategically important regions.

Reference: The Anniston Star, The Breeze, The Press

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Source: Maritime Shipping News