New imagery shared on social media has provided significant new details on characteristics of two new naval vessels at Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) at Longxue Island, Guangzhou. The Chinese designs are distinct concepts notionally serving as an experimental carrier for VTOL-drones or helicopters, and as an uncrewed or optionally crewed surface vessel (USV). Defense analyst and former submariner Tom Shugart first shared relevant satellite imagery of both vessels on “X” (formerly Twitter) in late October. The first of the two new designs is what previous reporting referred to as light aircraft carrier or amphibious carrier. Several key characteristics are unconfirmed pending better imagery. However, based on the new photos, the design appears to be an experimental platform serving research and development and testing of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Notably, the design appears to remain operational under the control of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), not the Chinese Navy. This notion is supported by the CSSC-logo prominently appearing on the deck superstructure housing the exhaust funnel and vents for what is likely a diesel propulsion plant towards the stern of the flight deck.The new vessel features a three part-island superstructure. The arrangement includes a navigation bridge forward, a second larger island containing the aviation control tower and primary sensor mast, and the aforementioned third structure housing propulsion. The layout of the flight control tower overall matches the design of similar features on existing PLAN amphibious assault carriers like the Type 075.

Full report : Leaked images show China’s new drone carrier and combat USV both likely to be operated by CSSC to support research and development for drone operations.