At least two new hulls have appeared in social media-imagery, putting the total now in PLAN-service up to at least six vessels. The first new hull, numbered 3260, was first seen in May this year. A second hull, numbered 3261, was documented first a few days ago.
China previously had bought two Zubr LCAC directly from Ukraine. Both ships, numbered 3325 and 3326, were delivered by 2014. Subsequently efforts were put in place to assemble two more units locally in China (dubbed Type 728), and these, numbered 3327 and 3328 were both delivered to PLAN by 2018. From then on production appeared to have stopped, leading to speculation over the related motivation, ranging from production difficulties, political factors arising from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, to operational utility for Chinese requirements.
The now observed new Zubr LCAC feature minor differences to the four vessels already in service. This includes fitting of a fire control-radar in the same place, where previous ships carry an electro-optical targeting system (E/O-turret). The mast carrying navigation radars and communication equipment is also re-designed, now featuring a cruciform support structure instead of the simpler layout on the first four units. Mounting of lifesaver-equipment along the superstructure is another small, but observable difference. In conclusion all these aspects support the notion that these are newly built hulls and not merely renumbered existing vessels.
The planned total figure of Zubr LCAC in PLAN-service remains unknown and the scale of future production therefore to be confirmed. Nevertheless the appearance of these newly fabricated units suggests PLAN intends to deploy Zubr at larger scale than previously indicated. In PLAN service Zubr-class LCAC currently share basing infrastructure at Sanya in the South China Sea with the smaller Type 726 LCAC, which are also deployed from Type 071 and Type 075 amphibious assault platforms.
The Zubr remains the worlds largest hovercraft, and as such represents a rather unique military capability for amphibious operations. Displacing 555 tons at full load, the type can move up to three main battle tanks (at 50 tons or less each) or eight to ten lighter armored vehicles over a distance of more than 500 km, travelling at speeds of well over 50 knots.
Combined with the apparent recent resumption in construction of at least one more Type 075 the appearance of further Zubr-type hovercraft seems to underscore persistent efforts by China to modernise and expand naval amphibious assault capability.
