On the eve of a large-scale military parade in Beijing, photos have emerged of a large unmanned surface ship (BNK) being transported around the city on a conveyor. This vessel is expected to be one of the most impressive novelties of the show and may turn out to be one of the largest unmanned ships ever publicly demonstrated by China.
The size of the vessel indicates that it belongs to the class of medium—sized or large unmanned platforms designed not just for reconnaissance or strike operations, but for performing a wide range of tasks, from long-term patrols to monitoring vast maritime areas. Unlike the small drone boats that China already uses for tactical purposes, this ship is capable of operating autonomously for a long time and at considerable distances from the base.
The emergence of such technology underscores China's strategic desire to strengthen its control over disputed territories, especially in the South China Sea. Beijing has territorial disputes with the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and other countries there. Unmanned patrol ships can strengthen their presence in these waters without risking the crew, reduce operating costs, and can be used for both monitoring and demonstration of force.
In addition, such vessels can be equipped with sensors, electronic intelligence systems, communications equipment, and even weapons, making them versatile platforms in modern naval strategy.
The demonstration of a large BNC at the parade is not just a technology demonstration, but a signal of China's readiness to move to a new level of autonomous and networked maritime defense.
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