tech
April 4, 2026
Chinese Destroyer "Anqing" Demonstrates Beijing's New Phase of Naval Power
The latest footage from Chinese state media, showing the Type 055 destroyer "Anqing" during complex naval exercises, testifies to the accelerated technological and operational ascent of the Chinese Navy. This is one of the most modern surface combat ships today, and its introduction into operational use is further changing the balance of power in the western Pacific.
TL;DR
- The Chinese Type 055 destroyer "Anqing" is featured in advanced naval exercises, indicating the Chinese Navy's rapid technological and operational growth.
- The "Anqing" and "Dongguan," officially commissioned in March, represent the ninth and tenth ships of the Type 055 class, featuring improved systems over earlier models.
- Exercises focus on live-fire drills against simulated targets under electromagnetic interference, emphasizing threat detection, high-pressure fire control, and system integration.
- Type 055 destroyers are equipped with a dual-band radar system, comparable to US concepts, offering high situational awareness and beyond-the-horizon target detection.
- These large and powerful destroyers, measuring approximately 180 meters long and displacing 13,000 tons, are seen as a significant challenge to the US Navy's current platforms.
- The technological configuration includes an integrated mast with a four-panel radar, supported by X-band radars and advanced sonar systems for multi-domain target engagement.
- The Type 055 class supports layered anti-air and anti-submarine defense, acts as an escort for aircraft carriers, and extends China's power projection capabilities.
- These destroyers signify China's transition to a technologically mature navy capable of competing with leading global naval forces.