China showed an unmanned mini-submarine: why does the PLA need a new device from CSSC

The submarine will have three configurations, each of which is designed for a separate type of mission — from reconnaissance to strike operations.

China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) demonstrated at Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai a new development in the field of underwater technology — a small unmanned submarine for special operations. Army Recognition columnists write about this in an exclusive article.

This autonomous platform from CSSC is designed to perform a wide range of secret missions, including reconnaissance, mine laying, stealth delivery and strike.

The design of the unmanned submarine makes it possible to install various payload modules, which adapts it to specific tasks. The platform supports three different configurations:

• Configuration A — for delivering warning and offensive strikes, capable of carrying from 8 to 12 torpedoes or missiles.
• Configuration B — designed for special operations, allows to transport 6 to 8 divers with their equipment for covert introduction and extraction.
• Configuration C — for minelaying and blockade, carries from 8 to 12 mines or small underwater vehicles (UUVs), as well as up to 4 large UUVs.

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The CSSC also indicated the key technical characteristics of the submarine:

• maximum underwater speed — 20 knots, cruising — 8 knots.
• diving depth — 300-450 meters.
• travel distance — up to 10,000 nautical miles at a speed of 6 knots
• dimensions — length 38-43 meters, width 4.8 meters, draft 5.6 meters, displacement 380-450 tons depending on the configuration.

The unmanned platform is equipped with a complex combat communication system, covering land, ship and satellite (SATCOM) channels, enabling real-time coordination over 1,000 to 3,000 miles. The submarine is equipped with a lithium-iron-phosphate battery system, supported by a high-speed diesel generator with a capacity of 400 kW, which provides it with long-term autonomy and reliability.

According to observers, the declared characteristics of the underwater drone speak of a universal platform capable of perform multiple functions that would normally require a number of manned submarines or surface ships.