The sinking of China’s newest nuclear-powered submarine has raised serious questions about the country’s military capabilities and internal accountability. U.S. officials have expressed concerns about the incident, noting that the Chinese government reportedly tried to cover up the sinking of the submarine while it was docked at a pier.
According to reports, the submarine, China’s first Zhou-class vessel, likely sank between May and June. Satellite images showed cranes in the area that would have been used to salvage the submarine from the river. The incident was not disclosed by Chinese authorities and was only brought to light recently.
The incident has led to speculation about the PLA Navy’s training standards, equipment quality, and overall oversight of China’s defense industry. The sinking of the submarine has also raised questions about corruption within the military and defense sector.
China has been vocal about its efforts to build a world-class military to protect its interests and deter aggression. The country currently maintains a fleet of six nuclear-capable submarines, with the capability to launch missiles that could reach the continental U.S. from the South China Sea.
Last year, the Pentagon revealed that China had adopted a policy of keeping at least one nuclear-capable submarine at sea at all times. This move has put pressure on U.S. resources and raised concerns about China’s growing military capabilities.
In response to China’s submarine activity, the U.S., U.K., and Australia recently entered into an agreement for the production and sale of nuclear-powered attack submarines. Australia is set to purchase these vessels to modernize its fleet and enhance its capabilities in the region.
The new submarines will play a crucial role in tracking missile submarines, like those deployed by China, and will help alleviate some of the pressure on U.S. and U.K. forces in the region. The agreement underscores the growing importance of naval power in the Indo-Pacific region and the need for countries to enhance their maritime capabilities.
Overall, the sinking of China’s nuclear-powered submarine has highlighted the challenges and complexities of modern naval warfare. It has also underscored the need for transparency and accountability in the defense sector to ensure the safety and security of all involved parties.
