China is building a new class of amphibious landing barges at the Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI), located in southern China. Recent satellite imagery and photos show at least three to five barges under construction, with features designed for transporting heavy equipment and vehicles directly onto shorelines.
Chinese PLA barges for amphibious landings already being tested. https://t.co/6Sy97Ynksw pic.twitter.com/2LOdYi34sw
— Clash Report (@clashreport) January 14, 2025
The barges are equipped with 120-meter-long road bridges that extend from their bows, enabling them to reach stable ground beyond beaches. At the rear, they feature open platforms that allow docking and unloading of other vessels.
The barges come in several configurations, with some featuring four to eight jack-up legs. Others are equipped with built-in ramps, which can eliminate the need for temporary piers or causeways.
Many analysts believe the barge was constructed in preparation for a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
According to Naval News report, the barges could allow China to unload large numbers of tanks directly onto Taiwanese roads.
The report also quoted Dr. Emma Salisbury, Sea Power Research Fellow at the Council on Geostrategy, saying: “Any invasion of Taiwan from the mainland would require a large number of ships to transport personnel and equipment across the Strait quickly, particularly land assets like armoured vehicles.”
“These mobile piers appear especially suited for such an invasion. Salisbury added, “As preparation for an invasion, or at least to give China the option as leverage, I would expect to see a build-up of construction of ships that could accomplish this transportation.”
China has yet to comment on the development.
