In the summer, Thomas Shugart, a former U.S. submarine officer and senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security China, first drew attention to unusual activity occurring at Wuchang Shipyard. The Chinese government tried to cover up any unusual activity and had not disclosed any new technology was being tested. Shugart had surmised there was new submarine technology being tested, but he did not fathom it might have been a new class of submarine using nuclear energy which sank.
The submarine was built by the Chinese state-owned company China State Shipbuilding Corporation. It was first observed alongside a pier on the Yangtze River in late May when it was undergoing its final equipping before going to sea. China’s Zhou-class submarine vessel sank in Wuchang Shipyard in Wuhan, China in June. This is the first of a new class of Chinese nuclear-powered subs, featuring a distinctive X-shaped stern for better maneuverability.
China had previously spoke on it’s goal of building a world-class military is to deter aggression and safeguard its overseas interests. But where was this nuclear-powered submarine heading to if it hadn’t sank?
This situation highlights the broader militarization efforts of China asserting dominance over strategic regions in the South China Sea. The South China Sea contains critical resources such as oil, gas, and fisheries and is viewed as a regional lifeline for Southeast Asia’s economic growth. Around 30% of global trade flows through these waters and is particularly significant for countries like Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Fiery Cross Island is one of China’s several man-made islands in the Spartlys, directly challenging the sovereignty of Southeast Asian nations’ claims on part of the South China Sea under the UN’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) framework, specifically the claims of Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and the Philippines. These man-made island function like military bases, allowing for extended naval reach, conducting of surveillance, and has the potential to block other countries’ access to their claimed waters with their naval strength.
Southeast Asian nations have sought out alliances and international support in attempt to counter China’s growing strength and influence.Vietnam has increased its military cooperation with India and Japan; The Philippines has worked to strengthen its military ties with the U.S.. However, with China’s increasing naval capabilities, including its quickly developing new nuclear-powered submarine technologies, tensions are likely to keep raising.
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