How China’s Type 075 transformed amphibious naval warfare
In short: Beyond a mere transport, the Type 075 landing helicopter dock represents a significant shift in naval capability. With a massive flight deck and a floodable well deck, this vessel is designed to project power through both the air and the sea, serving as a centerpiece for complex maritime operations.
The development of the Type 075 class, known by the NATO name Yushen-class, was marked by internal strategic debates. While the China State Shipbuilding Corporation's 708 Institute began design work in 2011, the final specifications were subject to disagreement. The Central Military Commission Equipment Development Department initially favored a smaller design, essentially an expanded version of the Type 071 amphibious transport dock, likely due to concerns that a larger ship's propulsion plant might be inadequate. However, the People's Liberation Army Navy's (PLAN) preference for a true landing helicopter assault ship eventually won out.
Constructed by Hudong–Zhonghua Shipbuilding, the first ship, Hainan, began construction in 2019. Despite a minor fire during fitting out in April 2020, the vessel was commissioned in April 2021 and achieved initial operating capability by March 2022. By November 2022, the PLAN declared the first two ships of the class combat-ready. The class's capabilities were notably demonstrated in late December 2025, when the Type 075 participated in the Justice Mission 2025 military exercise near Taiwan, acting as part of a blockade and deterrence force.
Technically, the Type 075 is a sophisticated platform. Its 226-meter-long flight deck features seven flight spots and can accommodate between 20 and 35 aircraft, including Changhe Z-8 helicopters and AR-2000 unmanned helicopters. The ship's displacement is estimated between 35,000 and 40,000 tonnes, potentially exceeding 40,000 tonnes at full displacement. For sea-to-land operations, a continuous space comprising a vehicle deck and a floodable well deck allows for the deployment of Type 726 hovercraft and mechanized infantry. Defense is maintained through a suite of radar systems, HHQ-10 air defense missiles, and H/PJ-14 close-in weapon systems.
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