Commercial satellite images from July 2 reveal ongoing construction of a new large replenishment vessel at a shipyard near Guangzhou. Analysts assess it as an expanded version of the People's Liberation Army Navy's Type 901 class, designed to support future Type 004 aircraft carriers and their battle groups.
The vessel measures about 271 metres in length with a beam of around 37 metres. Once complete it will rank among the largest replenishment ships in the world.
Imagery analyst Sean O'Connor of Janes said the ship was "likely tailored to supporting more advanced aircraft carriers, such as the forthcoming Type 004 and their attendant battle groups". He noted its expanded capacity would allow simultaneous resupply of carriers and escort destroyers.
Aircraft carriers require specialised supplies including aviation fuel, precision-guided weapons, spare parts and provisions for thousands of personnel. The new vessel is intended to meet these demands for larger and more diverse carrier air wings.
