I might jump in on this topic myself if nobody minds. Im a graduate student with a degree in history (mainly russia/china) and political studies (strategic and defense studies).
i have written extensive works on the chinese military thier modernization programs. so rather than invite you all to read multiple 40 pages essays, I'll break it down for you.
I might be inclined to disagree with what kapitain has already said, somewhat. I dont consider china's navy to be 'obsolete'. while it lacks some of the capability of the U.S Navy, it could be considered the 3rd most powerful force in the region, after Japan and the U.S 7th fleet.
that being said, I have made some observations about the PLAN and come to the following conclusions. given the design trends of recent, it can be said that China appears to have the following goals for its naval force in the next foreseeable 20 years.
1. A primary goal of being a defensive littoral force. this includes high numbers of fast attack patrol craft and diesel subs which will defend China's coastline. after all, its the primary job of any navy to defends its parent country's coast.
2. A secondary, limited blue-water capability to project power into regional waters. This mission is currently being developed. new chinese ships, such as the Type 052C Aegis cruiser and Shang class SSN will provide the PLAN with some ability to project a naval force into the deep water areas of the pacific for a limited time. Many see this happening in two possible scenarios.
a. PLA military action against taiwan. The naval force will project its power outwards, while the coastal navy conducts operations against taiwan. The blue-water force will attempt to confront the U.S Navy and keep thier carrier air wings from directly striking the Chinese mainland. Even chinese defense experts agree, this will be a time saving measure, that eventually the U.S navy will overcome the PLA fleet, but perhaps the island of taiwan will have been secured by such time. giving the americans the politcal choice of no longer 'aiding' taiwan, but now going to war against china as 'one country'.
b. Limited blockade action against japan. This is more low-intensity conflict wherein the Chinese fleet is able to exectute a blockade action against japan to bring about political talks or trade treaties. combat may be sporadic or low-intensity. China's fleet is expanding the ability of its ships to operatate at sea for longer periods and the new ships are showing improvement in speed. enabling them to rapidly retreat to coastal waters should the situation warrant.
essentially, you can break down the two missions into a primary mission of sea denial, and secondary of sea control.
as for the type 093 SSN and type 094 SSBN, I will submit the following. some estimates compare the 093 to the Victor III. this is a rough comparison at best and more intended to give an idea to its mission and capabilties, not its acoustic loudness or sensors. Essentially it will be a multi-mission submarine, but its primary function will be to attack U.S carrier groups. many speculate the vessel will have a Wide Aperature Array, like the seawolf and virginia class. I think acoustically, she will be more similar to a Sierra I or Mike class. I think her diving depth will be somewhere around 500m. I think she will able to make just over 30 kts and I think her sonar set will be the same as the improved kilo class, with a possible towed array.
The type 094 SSBN, is much more speculative. comparing her to a yankee class may be a bit underrated. some estimates put the 094 more closer to Delta III, or even IV levels. this remains to be seen as its doubtfull the class has even been laid down yet.
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