China’s first Zhou-class submarine, a new nuclear-powered attack vessel, sank earlier this summer at the Wuchang shipyard in Wuhan, marking a significant setback for the country’s ambitious efforts to expand and modernize its naval fleet in what is widely seen as an arms race with the United States. The submarine sank dock-side sometime between May and June, though the event was first reported by The Wall Street Journal only recently. A senior US defense official, speaking anonymously, confirmed the incident.
Satellite imagery captured over several weeks revealed the event as it unfolded, showing the submarine sinking and a recovery operation in progress. A flotilla of cranes appeared at the port, presumably to salvage the vessel. The submarine’s distinct X-shaped stern allowed for its identification as the new Zhou-class model, one of China’s latest advancements in naval technology. This submarine was part of China’s effort to develop third-generation nuclear-powered vessels, designed with enhanced stealth capabilities that make them harder to detect with sonar systems. Experts believe these submarines could serve in future roles, such as escorting Chinese aircraft carrier groups.
The Zhou-class submarine had first been identified in satellite images in May 2021 and was officially revealed by the Chinese navy in July 2022. Built by China’s State Shipbuilding Corporation, the submarine was considered a key asset in China’s rapidly growing naval arsenal.
Source: Chinese Navy
The sinking has raised broader questions about China’s operational capabilities. According to experts, the incident reflects a combination of factors, including a lack of comprehensive military experience and leadership challenges. Dr. Troy Bouffard, Director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, emphasized that China lacks the decades of experience necessary to develop a fully competent naval force. He pointed out that the country’s strict, hierarchical command structure exacerbates this issue, as leaders are often constrained by the need for permission rather than being empowered to make adaptable decisions. Bouffard argued that this kind of military culture can lead to the type of failure that occurred with the Zhou-class submarine.
Despite this setback, China’s naval ambitions continue to expand at a rapid pace. The country has been stepping up its naval operations in recent years, with notable activities this summer. For the first time, China deployed three aircraft carriers simultaneously, marking a significant milestone in its military operations. Additionally, China conducted large-scale naval exercises with Russia, involving 400 vessels. These joint exercises reflect the growing naval collaboration between the two countries.
China’s increasingly aggressive behavior in the West Philippine Sea has also drawn international attention. The country has deployed a 251-ship armada in the region, asserting territorial claims that have been deemed illegitimate by international courts, which ruled in favor of the Philippines. This behavior, coupled with China’s expanding naval activities, underscores its ambition to project power and influence across multiple theaters of operation.
China’s interest in expanding its naval reach is not limited to warm waters. The country has also been increasing its presence in the Arctic, where melting ice is opening new maritime routes. This summer, China dispatched three modern icebreakers to patrol the increasingly navigable waters in the high north. China’s growing ice-capable fleet stands in stark contrast to the US, whose aging icebreaker ships—one nearing 50 years old and another nearly 30 years old—are long overdue for replacement. A planned renewal program for US icebreakers has faced delays, with new ships expected to be delivered only in the 2030s.
While the US has long maintained naval supremacy, particularly in terms of nuclear submarine assets, China’s aggressive naval buildup is seen as an attempt to challenge that dominance. The development of the Zhou-class submarine was a key component of China’s plan to close the technological gap with the US and enhance its capabilities in underwater warfare. The sinking of this advanced submarine represents not only a technical failure but also highlights the broader challenges China faces as it seeks to establish itself as a major naval power.
