China Develops Q-Ships: Armed Merchant Vessels Camouflaged for Naval Operations
China is developing Q-ships, a new class of armed merchant vessels that can launch drones and missiles while camouflaged as ordinary cargo ships. The prototype, Zhong Da 79, is equipped with advanced radar and weapon systems, enabling it to conduct surprise attacks and support military operations. This initiative is part of China's broader military modernization efforts, potentially linked to strategies regarding Taiwan.
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China is developing a new class of warships known as Q-ships, designed to resemble ordinary merchant vessels while being equipped to launch drones and missiles. This initiative follows historical precedents where armed merchant ships were used in conflicts, specifically during the World Wars.
The Zhong Da 79, the first Q-ship prototype, measures 97 meters in length and 16 meters in width. It can potentially deploy seven reconnaissance and attack drones, the Feihong FH-97, using an electromagnetic catapult system.
Additionally, it features advanced radar systems and close-in weapon systems concealed within containers, allowing it to conduct surprise attacks. The ship was constructed at the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai and is part of China's broader military modernization efforts, potentially linked to strategies for a future invasion of Taiwan.
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