Mysterious New Weapon System Appears on Chinese Stealth Warship
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A Chinese stealth experimental warship has been observed with a new, mysterious box-like device on its deck, replacing its previous weapon systems.
- Military observers speculate the device could be a sonic weapon or a high-power microwave weapon for countering drones.
- The ship, designed to test stealth technology, was previously seen with potential short-range air defense missile equipment.
A Chinese experimental warship, designed to test stealth technology, has undergone a significant modification, sparking speculation about its new capabilities. Recent images reveal that the vessel's deck now features a mysterious, box-shaped device, replacing its previously installed weapon systems.
Military analysts are divided on the purpose of this new equipment. One theory suggests it could be a sonic weapon, capable of emitting high-intensity sound waves to disrupt personnel, a technology China has reportedly developed for non-lethal interference during maritime confrontations. Another prominent hypothesis is that the device is a high-power microwave weapon, a technology gaining attention for its potential to disable drone swarms.
The warship first appeared in 2023 with a distinctive hull designed to reduce radar detection. Earlier imagery indicated the deck might have housed equipment for short-range air defense missiles, such as China's HQ-10 system, though this was never officially confirmed. The removal of these systems and the addition of the new box-like structure suggest ongoing testing of advanced military technologies.
While the exact designation and function of the new system remain unconfirmed by official sources, the ongoing modifications to the stealth experimental vessel highlight China's focus on developing novel naval weaponry. Both the sonic and high-power microwave weapon theories stem from external analysis of the available photographic evidence.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.