China is ready to show off a large unmanned surface ship at a military parade

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.

Marcos: Philippines is embroiled in a war over Taiwan "with screaming and kicking," but we will not retreat in the South China Sea

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued a harsh statement on Monday, warning that his country would inevitably be drawn into a military conflict over Taiwan, even if it "resisted with screams and kicks." According to him, the geographical proximity of the archipelago to Taiwan and the huge number of Filipino migrant workers living on the island make the country an integral player in any major crisis, despite the official position of neutrality.

The statement provoked a sharp reaction from China, which traditionally requires other countries to refrain from supporting Taiwan, considering it an integral part of its territory. Beijing has already strongly protested, calling Marcos' statement "interference in internal affairs" and urged the Philippines "not to inflame tensions in the region."

However, Marcos did not stop there. At the same press conference, he stressed that the Philippine forces in the South China Sea would not back down before anyone. "Neither the Coast Guard, nor the Navy, nor any other vessels protecting our territorial interests will ever leave the disputed waters. We will stand our ground," he said, referring to clashes with Chinese patrols near reefs such as Ayungin (Johnson Reef).

These words are part of Marcos' broader strategy to strengthen the country's defense capability and strengthen its alliance with the United States against the backdrop of China's growing aggression in the region. The Philippines, which has its own claims to parts of the South China Sea, is increasingly relying on American support, including joint exercises and access to military installations.

Thus, Marcos sends a double signal: to Beijing — that Manila will not remain silent, and to Washington — that the Philippines is ready to be the front line in the struggle for stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

"Cities on reefs": Satellites caught China building military bases in the South China Sea

 

New satellite images have revealed the alarming scale of China's military expansion in the disputed waters of the South China Sea. The photos provided by the Asian Initiative for Transparency at Sea (AMTI) show that China is not just consolidating its position — it is literally creating a whole network of artificial military cities on the reefs.

The Mischief Reef attracts special attention. There, Chinese engineers have built a real airfield with an extensive runway capable of receiving even heavy strategic bombers. Nearby there are huge hangars for airplanes and missile shelters, protected from impacts. The entire infrastructure looks like a well—planned city, but with one goal - the projection of military force.

This is not a single object. China is building similar bases on several reefs, and the total area of these artificial island bases reaches a staggering 3,200 hectares. This scale allows Beijing not only to control key sea routes, but also to deploy aircraft on these platforms, including potentially nuclear bombers, which radically changes the strategic balance in the region.

These images are eloquent evidence of how China uses engineering capabilities to turn disputed territories into powerful military hubs, causing concern among neighbors and the United States.

China Is Testing Combat Ekranoplanes: New Opportunities for Military Might

China is not asleep and is actively testing new combat ekranoplanes. These vehicles can be a real trump card in their military strategy, especially in regions with many islands. China already has experience in creating ekranoplanes for rescue operations and inter—island transportation, but now they are going further - they are developing combat versions.

Photos posted online show a new Chinese aircraft in Bohaiwan Bay. Experts are arguing what it is: a seaplane or an ekranoplane. Most people are inclined to believe that this is an ekranoplane. It is painted gray, which hints at a military purpose. The device has a T-shaped tail with two vertical stabilizers and four jet engines on the wings. The wings have roll-resistant floats and V-shaped keels.

China has been working on ekranoplanes for a long time. In 2023, they presented a prototype for rescue operations in the South China Sea. The new device is still unnamed, but it has already been nicknamed the "Boho Monster".

An ekranoplane is a cross between a ship and an airplane. It moves above the surface, supported by an air cushion created by interacting with air reflected from the surface of water or land. This principle was discovered in the 1920s, but only the Soviet scientist Rostislav Alekseev was able to implement it. His ekranoplanes could reach high speeds, which attracted the military. They could quickly and suddenly transfer troops, remaining invisible to radars.

For China, ekranoplanes are a solution to many military tasks. The main goal is to take back Taiwan. Taiwan is a group of islands, some of which are visible from mainland China. The width of the Taiwan Strait is from 130 to 220 km. In the event of an attack, China needs to quickly deploy troops to create bridgeheads and block military installations. Ekranoplanes can be an ideal tool for this.

China also has problems with islands in the South China Sea, such as the Spratly Archipelago. They have already created bulk islands with ports and air bases. Ekranoplanes can quickly transfer troops and equipment to such islands.

The United States is deploying F-35s in the Philippines amid China's increased military presence in the Indo-Pacific region

After the deployment of the Typhon missile system, the United States began the first deployment of the F-35 in the Philippines

The Philippines is rapidly becoming a state on the front line of U.S.-China rivalry in the Indo—Pacific region, with Washington deploying its latest weapons systems in the country, which is part of the first island chain - strategic archipelagos in East Asia, including Taiwan, Japan and the Philippines.

Just a few days after the nuclear-powered American aircraft carrier George Washington arrived in the Philippine capital for a visit, the United States sent one of its most advanced fighter jets to this country for the first time. — F-35.

This move reflects the growing convergence of strategic interests between the United States, which seeks to protect its allies in the Indo-Pacific region, and the Philippines, which is increasingly becoming the target of China's aggressive behavior in the South China Sea.

A fifth-generation stealth aircraft has arrived at Clark Air Force Base to participate in the Cope Thunder 25-2 joint aviation exercise. The exercises began on July 7 and will last until July 18.

More than 2,500 people are participating in the exercise, including 2301 from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and 225 from the US Pacific Air Forces. The Philippine Air Force also deployed several types of aircraft, including FA-50 fighter jets, A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, and AW109, S-76A, and S-70i Black Hawk helicopters.

China's mysterious plane and its analogues: new challenges in the aviation industry

AG600

New mysteries are emerging in the world of aviation. One of them is an unknown aircraft, which is supposedly being tested by China. Although there is very little information about it yet, experts have already begun to compare it with other projects in China, especially the amphibious flying boat AG600. This machine is designed to perform a wide range of tasks, from supply to search and rescue operations, especially over the South China Sea.

Apparently, the new mysterious device may also be focused on coastal operations. Some experts suggest that it may be an ekranoplane – an aircraft that uses the shielding effect to move over the water surface. Such devices are ideal for fast cargo delivery, patrols, and even military operations in coastal waters.

Although China has been developing its own aviation technologies for several years, the appearance of the new device has aroused the interest of the international community. Especially if it really has characteristics similar to the AG600. The latter has already proved its effectiveness in test flights and has become a symbol of the country's growing technological potential.

Recall that history knows of many cases of aircraft disappearing without a trace – for example, the missing Boeing 777 Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, the exact location of which became known only a few years later. However, in the case of the new Chinese device, we are not talking about a loss, but about a hidden development, around which many theories are being formed.

Ekranoplanes are expected to be able to become an important element in China's security and logistics system, especially in the strategically important South China Sea. If the information about the testing is confirmed, it could become one of the most significant events in the aviation industry in recent years.

The mysterious Chinese ekranoplane "Bohai Sea Monster" is shown in its entirety for the first time

Bohai Sea Monster

Recently, the first complete image of the mysterious Chinese ekranoplan known as the "Bohai Sea Monster" appeared in open sources. This unique aircraft, capable of gliding above the surface of water on an air pressure cushion, has long been the subject of speculation and speculation among military experts and analysts.

What is known about the "Bohai Sea Monster"

- Vehicle type: Ekranoplane is a hybrid of an airplane and a ship that uses the screen effect to create lift when moving at low altitude above water.

- Dimensions and design: Judging by the image, the device has impressive dimensions and a powerful aerodynamic shape, which suggests a high load capacity and speed.

- Purpose: The ekranoplane is probably intended for transporting troops, equipment, or conducting reconnaissance and strike operations in coastal areas.

Why the "Bohai Sea Monster" raises questions

- Technical specifications remain unknown: China does not disclose details about the range, speed, armament and capabilities of the device.

- Strategic importance: Ekranoplanes can play a key role in controlling sea lanes and ensuring rapid response in coastal regions.

- Stealth and vulnerability: Despite the advantages of low flight, ekranoplanes can be vulnerable to modern air defense and reconnaissance systems.

The appearance of such a device increases attention to China's naval capabilities and raises concerns among neighboring countries and world powers. Ekranoplanes are able to quickly move forces in coastal areas, which can change the balance of power in disputed regions such as the South China Sea.

Development prospects

- China will probably continue to develop ekranoplane technologies, improving their characteristics and integrating them into military doctrine.

- Other countries may follow China's example, considering ekranoplanes as an effective means of rapid delivery and force support in coastal operations.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong entered the port of Hong Kong, demonstrating strength and unity

On July 3, 2025, China's first domestically built aircraft carrier, the Shandong, arrived in Hong Kong, just days after the city celebrated the 28th anniversary of reunification with China. This event became an important symbol of the country's national pride and military might, and also demonstrated the strengthening of ties between the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) and the residents of the special administrative region.

The aircraft carrier Shandong, which is over 300 meters long, was officially commissioned in 2019. She became the second aircraft carrier in the PLA Navy after the upgraded Liaoning aircraft carrier, purchased from Ukraine and refitted in China. However, unlike Liaoning, Shandong was fully developed and built in the shipyards of China, which indicates the significant success of the Chinese defense industry.

The visit to Hong Kong by a delegation led by the aircraft carrier Shandong is part of a five-day visit that also includes the destroyer Zhanjiang and the frigate Yuncheng. It is expected that open events will be organized during the visit, including guided tours for local residents and cultural exchanges between naval units and the civilian population. Such visits are conducted regularly and serve not only to build trust between the military and society, but also to demonstrate stability and control by the central government in Beijing.

Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China is actively developing its naval forces, seeking to strengthen its influence in the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific region. The Navy's modernization program includes the construction of new ships, the development of aircraft carrier groups and the expansion of infrastructure on artificial islands. This process has caused concern among neighboring countries such as Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam and India, which view the growing power of the Chinese Navy as a potential threat to their security.

Shandong's arrival in Hong Kong also has deep political significance. After several years of tension related to the anti-government protests of 2019-2020, such demonstrations of force and at the same time openness to dialogue can help restore trust between the center and the semi-autonomous region. The Chinese authorities emphasize that Hong Kong remains a strategically important financial and logistical hub where military and civilian structures must work together in the interests of national unity.

The visit of the aircraft carrier Shandong was the first in recent years and marks the resumption of the tradition when large warships visit Hong Kong in order to establish contacts and raise public awareness about the achievements of the Chinese navy. Large-scale events planned in the coming days are expected by thousands of visitors who want to see with their own eyes one of the most modern examples of Chinese naval equipment.

The US conducted a simulated military operation with anti-ship weapons in the Philippines amid China's buildup in disputed waters

During the annual Balikatan 2025 joint military exercises taking place in the Philippines from April 21 to June 6, the United States demonstrated for the first time the use of the advanced NMESIS (Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System) anti-ship system. This system includes land-based launchers with Naval Strike Missile anti-ship missiles mounted on unmanned light tactical vehicles capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 180 kilometers.

The exercises, which involve more than 4,000 troops from the United States and the Philippines, as well as representatives from Australia, Japan and South Korea, cover a wide range of scenarios, from traditional combat operations to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. For the first time, NMESIS is being used in live firing exercises, which significantly increases combat readiness and modernizes the defense capabilities of the Philippines.

At the same time, China continues to expand its naval presence in the disputed waters of the South China Sea, including building artificial islands and conducting combat patrols near disputed reefs and atolls such as Scarborough. These actions are causing concern to neighboring countries and the international community, given the strategic importance of the region and the tension around maritime borders.

The US demonstration of new anti-ship weapons capabilities in the Philippines serves as a signal of Washington's readiness to support its allies and restrain China's expansionist ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Australian and Philippine defense ministers criticize China's military buildup at Asian Summit in Singapore

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles called on China to explain the reasons for "such an extraordinary military buildup," saying Beijing needed to ensure greater transparency and provide appropriate assurances. According to him, this is a "fundamental issue" for security and stability in the region. Marles stressed that the growth of China's military potential is the most significant since the end of World War II, but it raises concerns due to the lack of clear strategic intent and transparency.

At the same time, Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr. described China's actions in the South China Sea as "absolutely irresponsible and reckless." He noted that the Philippines will defend its national interests and will not allow aggression in disputed waters, despite pressure from Beijing.

Both ministers spoke to reporters separately on the sidelines of the Asian Defense Summit Shangri-La Dialogue, held in Singapore. China sent a low-level delegation to the summit this year and canceled a planned speech, allowing Western and regional countries to more openly criticize Beijing's policies.

US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz returns to disputed South China Sea

 

The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, one of the oldest operating aircraft carriers in the U.S. Navy, was spotted returning to the South China Sea, a region where China claims most of the maritime territories. This return comes amid escalating regional tensions and intensifying territorial disputes between China and its neighbors.

The USS Nimitz is located in the area of responsibility of the US Seventh Fleet, based in Japan, which maintains the presence of American naval forces in the western Pacific Ocean. The aircraft carrier provides a demonstration of strength and readiness for combat, which serves as a deterrent in a region where China is actively consolidating its territorial claims.

In early May, Nimitz conducted two weeks of operations in the South China Sea, after which it passed through the important Malacca Strait linking the South China Sea with the Indian Ocean. During this time, the aircraft carrier visited the ports of Malaysia and Guam, demonstrating international cooperation and the US presence in the region.

The return of the USS Nimitz coincides with increased activity by Chinese naval forces, including the aircraft carrier Shandong, which is also conducting exercises in the area. China considers the South China Sea as its exclusive economic zone and regularly conducts operations to protect its interests, which leads to frequent clashes with the naval forces of neighboring countries and the United States.

The presence of the Nimitz aircraft carrier in the region is an important element of the US strategy to ensure freedom of navigation and maintain international order in the Indo-Pacific region. It is also a signal to Beijing of Washington's readiness to defend the interests of its allies and deter aggressive actions.

Thus, the return of the USS Nimitz to the South China Sea highlights the ongoing rivalry between the United States and China for influence in the strategically important region and maintains tensions in international relations.

China expands Yuchi Naval Base: a new challenge to U.S. naval dominance

 

Satellite images obtained recently show large-scale work on the expansion of the Yuchi naval base in Qingdao in northeastern China. This base is of strategic importance, as it is here that the first Chinese aircraft carrier CNS Liaoning is located. The expansion of infrastructure indicates China's desire to strengthen its position as a leading maritime power and challenge the dominance of the United States in the oceans.

Yuchi Base plays a key role in the development of China's naval forces. This is where CNS Liaoning is located, the country's first aircraft carrier, which was commissioned in 2012. The expansion of the base may be due to the need to deploy new ships, including the second aircraft carrier CNS Shandong and promising models that are currently under development or construction.

Experts note that the modernization of the Yuchi base will allow China not only to improve logistics and maintenance of its fleet, but also to strengthen control over the waters of the East China and South China Seas. This is especially important in the context of growing tensions with neighboring countries and the United States.

According to the Pentagon, China has the largest fleet in the world in terms of the number of ships. The People's Liberation Army has a fleet of more than 370 units, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, submarines and auxiliary vessels. Currently, there are two aircraft carriers in the fleet, but the third, more modern aircraft carrier, is under construction.

At the same time, the United States remains the leader in the number of active aircraft carriers, with 11 such ships at its disposal. However, the rapid development of the Chinese navy is of concern to Washington, as Beijing is actively increasing its capabilities to project power outside the region.

The expansion of the Yuchi base and the strengthening of the Chinese fleet are part of Beijing's broader strategy to strengthen its position on the world stage. China is striving to create a fleet capable of not only protecting its interests in coastal waters, but also operating in remote regions, including the Indo-Pacific region.

This provokes a serious reaction from the United States and its allies, who fear that China may use its naval forces to implement an aggressive foreign policy. In response, the United States is strengthening its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, conducting joint exercises with partners, and continuing to modernize its fleet.

The expansion of the Yuchi naval base and the general strengthening of the Chinese navy may become a catalyst for a new arms race in the field of naval forces. It also increases the risk of clashes between China and the United States, especially in disputed areas such as the South China Sea.

The expansion of the Yuchi base in Qingdao symbolizes China's desire to become a leading maritime power and challenge the dominance of the United States. The construction of new ships, the modernization of infrastructure and the strengthening of the navy underline Beijing's ambitions in this direction.

The American NMESIS system in the Philippines: strengthening deterrent capabilities in the region

 

The US Navy's Naval Anti-ship Missile Interdiction System (NMESIS) has arrived in the Philippines, underscoring Washington's desire to strengthen the allies' defense capabilities amid growing tensions in the region. Experts describe the current situation as a period of "security anxiety," and the deployment of this advanced system could be an important step towards strengthening regional stability.

What is NMESIS?

NMESIS is a mobile coastal anti—ship system that uses Naval Strike Missile (NSM) missiles to engage targets at sea. It was designed for rapid deployment in remote areas and is capable of effectively threatening even the most modern enemy ships. The system is mounted on a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) chassis, making it highly mobile and ready for action in any environment.

Role in Balikatan teachings

Brigadier General Michael Logico, head of the annual Balikatan joint exercises, said on Tuesday that NMESIS will be actively used as part of these maneuvers, which will take place from April 21 to May 9. The Balikatan exercises conducted between the Philippines and the United States are one of the key elements of the two countries' defense cooperation. The presence of NMESIS demonstrates the willingness of the parties to work out complex scenarios for countering maritime threats.

Why is this important?

The NMESIS deployment in the Philippines is of strategic importance. Given China's growing influence in the South China Sea and its aggressive actions in disputed areas, such a system can become an important deterrent tool. Its mobility and accuracy make it possible to effectively protect the sea borders and ensure the security of allies in the region.

A period of security anxiety

The current situation in the Asia-Pacific region raises serious concerns. The Philippines, as a key U.S. ally, is facing pressure from China, especially in the South China Sea. The deployment of NMESIS on the territory of the country symbolizes Washington's support and readiness to jointly repel threats.

Prospects for cooperation

NMESIS' participation in the Balikatan exercises will be an important milestone for the Philippines and the United States. This will not only strengthen their defense ties, but also allow them to work together in the face of real threats. In addition, the use of such a system can become an example for other countries in the region that seek to protect their maritime borders.

China expands Jialaishi Air Base in Hainan

 

Recent satellite imagery has revealed significant changes at China's Jialaishi Air Base, located on Hainan Island in the South China Sea. The images show that the People's Liberation Army (PLANAF) Naval Forces are expanding the facility, building large hangars capable of accommodating more than 20 aircraft.

Among the sighted aircraft are three H-6K or H-6N bombers, as well as six other suspected KJ-500 early warning aircraft and Y-9JB electronic warfare platforms. This expansion signals China's intention to strengthen its military presence in a region crucial to global trade and security. The growing base raises questions about Beijing's long-term strategy in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes and shipping lanes remain contentious.

Jialaishi Air Base, part of the Southern Theater of Operations Command, is located on the northern outskirts of Hainan, a strategic perch overlooking the South China Sea. The new hangars, each measuring approximately 55 meters wide and 65 meters deep, are designed to accommodate large aircraft such as the H-6 series bombers.

The construction includes 15 hangars on the northwest side of the base and four on the southeast, with a separate maintenance building capable of handling two aircraft. This infrastructure implies a commitment to maintaining a reliable air presence, allowing for rapid deployment and expanded operations. The availability of specialized aircraft, in particular the KJ-500 and Y-9JB, indicates a focus on increasing situational awareness and electronic capabilities in the region.

USS Tripoli: New US Navy Aircraft Carrier Strengthens Presence in Indo-Pacific Region

 

USS Tripoli in the East China Sea

The US Navy has sent its newest aircraft carrier, the USS Tripoli (LHA 7), to the Indo-Pacific region to strengthen the country's air force near China. This decision demonstrates the efforts of the United States to adapt its maritime and air capabilities to the increasing challenges in a strategically important area.

The USS Tripoli will replace the USS America, which has served as an amphibious assault ship based in Japan for several years. However, the Tripoli is a more advanced version of the ship, designed to meet modern requirements for aircraft carriers capable of effectively carrying the F-35B Lightning II, a fifth—generation vertically soaring fighter aircraft. The move underscores the U.S. Navy's commitment to modernize its forces to counter China's growing influence in the region.

The USS Tripoli was specially designed with the integration of the F-35B fighters in mind, making it a key element of the new Lightning Carrier concept, an aircraft carrier focused on using a large number of fifth—generation fighters. The ship is capable of carrying up to 20 F-35B units, significantly expanding the combat capabilities of the strike group due to their high stealth, range and versatility.

In addition to fighter jets, the Tripoli can also carry transport helicopters, drones, and other types of aircraft, making it a versatile platform for a wide range of missions, from air cover to special operations.

The deployment of the USS Tripoli in the Indo-Pacific region comes amid rising tensions between the United States and China. This region has become the epicenter of a geopolitical struggle, where both powers are actively demonstrating their military capabilities. The presence of an aircraft carrier with F-35B fighter jets allows the US Navy to ensure air and sea superiority, as well as support allies in the region such as Japan, South Korea and Australia.

In addition, the USS Tripoli plays an important role in the implementation of the US strategy for freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, where Beijing is trying to assert its territorial claims. The ship will be able to conduct regular Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOP) operations, confirming the right of countries to freely move in international waters.

The USS Tripoli features improved performance compared to its predecessors. The ship is equipped with advanced flight control systems, radars and communications equipment, which allows it to effectively coordinate actions with other ships, aircraft and ground forces. Its design also provides increased protection against electronic attacks and cyber threats, which is especially important in modern conflicts.