China Transforms Container Feeder into Arsenal Vessel | Mariner News
Recent open-source intelligence reveals that China’s arsenal ship strategy is taking an unconventional turn. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has reportedly transformed a standard container feeder, the Zhong Da 79, into a vessel equipped with significant missile capabilities. This surprising development underscores China’s aggressive approach to bolstering its naval power in the Western Pacific, posing new challenges for regional sea control.
The Zhong Da 79 Transformation Revealed
The vessel in question, Zhong Da 79, originally a 320-foot container feeder, has undergone a secretive refit. Imagery from Shanghai shows the ship now outfitted with multiple rows of quad-pack containerized Vertical Launch System (VLS) missile cells, strikingly resembling a frigate’s armament. Experts estimate this converted vessel could carry between 48 and 60 VLS cells, indicating a substantial increase in its combat potential.
Strategic Implications for Naval Power
This innovative use of a civilian vessel for military purposes highlights China’s adaptive maritime strategy. By converting a commonplace ship into a missile vessel, the PLA Navy can rapidly expand its combatant fleet, potentially circumventing traditional shipbuilding timelines. This move further complicates the U.S. Navy’s efforts to maintain sea control in a vital region, showcasing China’s commitment to modernizing its forces and projecting naval might. The emergence of such a Chinese arsenal vessel signifies a notable shift in naval warfare capabilities.
