Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:04:50 +0000

The True Scale of China’s Naval Power Lies in Its Hidden Ships When discussing global naval power, most attention naturally gravitates toward visible assets like aircraft carriers, destroyers, and large amphibious vessels. Yet, beneath the surface of China’s rapidly modernizing navy lies a quietly formidable force: its fleet of hidden or lesser-known ships. These clandestine platforms, often overshadowed by flashy surface combatants, represent a strategic shift in naval warfare—one centered on stealth, submarine dominance, and superiority in undersea and coastal operations. Understanding this hidden dimension reveals the true scale of China’s maritime power. ### Why China’s Naval Strategy Emphasizes "Hidden" Ships China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) is not relying solely on catapult ships or traditional surface fleets. Instead, Beijing has prioritized a diversified, low-observability naval force designed to project power subtly and strike with precision. This approach allows China to operate undetected in contested waters like the South China Sea and the Western Pacific, where visibility increases vulnerability.