New satellite imagery shows China’s rapid progress on the construction of a brand new class of warship, the Type 076 landing helicopter assault (LHA) ship. Once complete, it will be the largest vessel of its type in the world.
Analysis
Analysis includes commentary-style pieces by members of the ChinaPower team and other invited experts. Analysis articles supplement our in-depth, data-driven ChinaPower features with timely assessments of key issues related to Chinese power.
Unpacking the Drivers of Southeast Asia’s Policy towards China
Southeast Asian states have mostly taken a pragmatic approach and see China’s rise as strategically and economically beneficial for their regime security. In this guest authored analysis, Selina Ho and Chin-Hao Huang explain the drivers of Southeast Asia’s policies towards China.
China Is Upgrading Dual-Use Villages along Its Disputed Indian Border
China is developing hundreds of villages along its disputed border with India. Commercial satellite imagery shows that these border villages are often accompanied by likely military facilities, which can aid in defending China’s contested frontiers.
India-China Relations Are Unlikely to See Much Progress
Relations between China and India have been tense since a 2020 standoff at their disputed border. In this guest authored analysis, Dr. Rajeswari Pillari Rajagopalan explains why India-China relations are unlikely to see progress in 2024.
Tracking China’s Naval Modernization at Key Shipyards
Work continues apace on a rapid buildup of China’s navy. Recent satellite imagery of Jiangnan Shipyard and Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard shows continued progress on China’s third aircraft carrier, a new Type 075 amphibious assault ship, and several other new vessels.
Analyzing the Latest Xi-Putin Meeting and China’s Belt and Road Forum
From October 17–18, China hosted the third Belt and Road forum, during which Xi Jinping met one-on-one with Russia’s Vladimir Putin. Read analysis of the Xi-Putin meeting and forum by members of the China Power Project.
China Accelerates Construction of ‘Ro-Ro’ Vessels, with Potential Military Implications
As demand for Chinese-made vehicles rises, Chinese shipyards are receiving record numbers of orders for “roll on-roll off” (ro-ro) ships, which are specifically designed to ferry vehicles. While these ships appear innocuous, the Chinese military is making use of ro-ros to enhance its capabilities.
The 2023 BRICS Summit: A Mixed Bag for China
In August 2023, Chinese President Xi Jinping traveled to South Africa to attend the 15th BRICS Summit. Analyzing the summit, ChinaPower’s Brian Hart argues China scored diplomatic successes while also stumbling from self-inflicted setbacks.