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China Tests Uncrewed Submersible With 16 Missile Tubes

By Drooid · Oct 28, 2026 · How we work

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Summary

China is testing a trimaran-hull submersible warship equipped with 16 missile tubes.
The vessel was built in Guangzhou, ferried to Dalian, then moved to Huludao for trials.
Satellite imagery captured the submersible at Dalian on 12 May 2026.
The ship can surface, open two hangar doors, and raise YJ-20 hypersonic missiles.
China has not linked the craft to existing uncrewed surface or submarine programs, keeping details secret.

Summary

Dr. Pawling says missile hangars dominate the hull, leaving the interior extremely cramped.
He argues the vessel likely lacks space for a permanent crew.
An open navigation bridge atop the fin suggests occasional human control for docking.
Port crews may still need to board the unmanned ship for maintenance despite autonomous design.

History

In 2016, the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency unveiled the autonomous surface vessel Sea Hunter, marking the first operational unmanned warship. Leidos built the 70-foot craft for the U.S. Navy at a reported $15 million cost, demonstrating long-range, crew-less missile-ready capability. China’s 2026 trimaran-hull submersible, spotted in Dalian with YJ-20 hypersonic missiles and minimal crew space, mirrors Sea Hunter’s unmanned, missile-laden design. The precedent suggests autonomous naval platforms will reshape global maritime strategy, prompting heightened surveillance and doctrinal revisions among major powers.

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In 2016, the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency unveiled the autonomous surface vessel Sea Hunter, marking the first operational unmanned warship. Leidos built the 70-foot craft for the U.S. Navy at a reported $15 million cost, demonstrating long-range, crew-less missile-ready capability. China’s 2026 trimaran-hull submersible, spotted in Dalian with YJ-20 hypersonic missiles and minimal crew space, mirrors Sea Hunter’s unmanned, missile-laden design. The precedent suggests autonomous naval platforms will reshape global maritime strategy, prompting heightened surveillance and doctrinal revisions among major powers.

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