By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
The deployment of a Chinese amphibious warship near the contested South China Sea area marks a significant escalation in the ongoing territorial disputes between China and the Philippines. The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) Type 075-class amphibious warship, first observed by satellite on June 12, is a state-of-the-art vessel designed to enhance China’s power projection capabilities.
With a displacement of approximately 36,000 tons, the Type 075 is equipped to support amphibious operations involving between 900 and 1,200 troops, along with a complement of amphibious assault vehicles, hovercraft, and helicopters. Despite its impressive size and capabilities, it lacks the vertical and short take-off and landing (V/STOL) fighter jets that characterize its American counterpart, the U.S. Navy’s Wasp-class LHD.
The Type 075’s deployment near Subi Reef and subsequently near Sabina Shoal—72 nautical miles northwest of the Philippine Island of Palawan—underscores Beijing’s strategic intent to reinforce its territorial claims in the South China Sea. This region is highly contested, with multiple nations, including the Philippines, asserting their rights over various features based on exclusive economic zones (EEZs).
Interestingly, the recent standoff at Sabina Shoal began in April, with the Philippine Coast Guard’s flagship, BRP Teresa Magbanua, anchoring at the shoal to counter alleged Chinese reclamation activities. China’s response, involving a substantial increase in naval presence, culminated in the deployment of the Type 075. This move coincides with a new Chinese law permitting the China Coast Guard to detain foreign vessels within claimed waters for up to 60 days, signaling Beijing’s assertive stance on its territorial claims.
The presence of the Type 075 in the South China Sea preceded a serious incident at Second Thomas Shoal, where a confrontation resulted in injuries to Philippine personnel and damage to multiple vessels. China’s aggressive stance and extensive claims over the South China Sea have led to numerous confrontations with Philippine naval and coast guard vessels, often culminating in perilous incidents and collisions.
Ret. Gen. John Murray, Former Commander, Army Futures Command
Unofficial sources reveal that the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) aims to commission a total of eight Type 075 amphibious assault ships. To date, three of these formidable vessels have been launched, with the first entering service in 2021 and operational deployment beginning in 2023. These ships are designed for a range of operations, including amphibious assaults, humanitarian aid, and counter-terrorism missions. Their deployment has been preceded by rigorous training exercises to ensure combat readiness and effective landing capabilities in various operational scenarios. This strategic move is a clear indication of China’s intent to solidify its military presence and enhance its operational flexibility in the South China Sea.
Its presence not only serves to reinforce Beijing’s territorial claims but also acts as a deterrent against regional adversaries. As tensions continue to rise, the strategic dynamics of the South China Sea will remain a critical focus for military analysts and policymakers worldwide.
