In a groundbreaking revelation at the Zhuhai Airshow in November 2024, China has unveiled a truly massive submarine drone—one that challenges the very concept of what an underwater drone can be. Officially marketed as a “small unmanned submarine for special operations,” the vehicle is, in fact, something far more formidable. Designed by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), this drone is set to be the largest of its kind ever built, with a size that rivals certain manned submarines.
This impressive underwater machine is poised to play a central role in military operations, capable of carrying out everything from attacking enemy ships and laying mines to supporting special operations. With its extraordinary size, it can even serve as a “mother ship” for smaller drones, creating a versatile tool for underwater warfare.
A Size Like No Other: 43 Meters of Underwater Power
Let’s talk numbers. This submarine drone, depending on its configuration, stretches between 38 and 43 meters in length. That’s a serious size, putting it in the realm of manned submarines like the German “Type 206” attack submarine. While still a bit smaller than the Type 206, it’s larger than North Korea’s Sang-O class, both of which require human crews to operate.
When you consider that the largest underwater drones in the world today are the Orca drones developed by Boeing—measuring just 26 meters—it’s clear that China’s CSSC has pushed the boundaries of what was previously thought possible. With this new vessel, China has moved the needle in terms of both size and capability in the underwater drone category.
Versatility: A Tool for Special Operations and Beyond
From the outside, the drone has a relatively traditional design, with a sleek hull and a low, dorsal hump in place of a traditional fin. However, the real surprises are inside. According to the models on display at the Zhuhai Airshow, the drone’s interior is equipped to carry an array of torpedoes and missiles. One model, identified as “Type A,” can hold between eight and twelve torpedoes or missiles, while the “Type B” variant is geared toward carrying six to eight special operations divers. Meanwhile, the “Type C” model is designed specifically for mine-laying and transporting smaller drones.
This multi-configurable design underscores the vehicle’s versatility. It can be adapted to different missions, from offensive strikes to covert operations, making it a highly flexible asset for military planners.
Impressive Technical Specs: Speed, Range, and Depth
In terms of logistics, the sheer size and weight of the drone make it an engineering marvel. It weighs between 380 and 450 tons when on the surface, and it’s capable of diving to depths ranging from 300 to 450 meters. Underwater, it can reach speeds of up to 20 knots (about 37 km/h), though it moves slower on the surface at a maximum speed of 8 knots (14 km/h).
Its range is equally impressive: it can travel up to 3,000 nautical miles (5,556 km) underwater, and even more astonishingly, it has a surface range of 10,000 nautical miles (18,520 km). This extended range makes it highly capable for long-term missions, potentially operating in deep-water environments for extended periods without needing to return to base.
Changing the Future of Underwater Drones
With these extraordinary specifications, the new Chinese submarine drone is positioned to redefine the future of underwater warfare. Whether it’s conducting reconnaissance, laying mines, or delivering payloads, its size and flexibility make it a powerful tool for any naval force.
By comparison, the most well-known drone of this type to date, Boeing’s Orca, falls far short of the size and capabilities of the Chinese vessel. At 26 meters long, the Orca was already considered a giant in the world of underwater drones, but the CSSC’s new model dwarfs it, showing that the race for the world’s most advanced submarine drone is far from over.
As military technologies continue to evolve, we’re likely to see even more advancements in unmanned underwater vehicles, and this new Chinese submarine drone is a clear indication of where things are headed. Whether it’s for strategic defense or offensive operations, the future of naval warfare might very well be underwater—and unmanned.
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