China's Latest Nuclear Submarine Sinks, Allegedly Covered Up

According to a shocking report by the Wall Street Journal, a senior US defense official has revealed that China's latest and most advanced nuclear-powered submarine has sunk at a shipyard near Wuhan. This submarine was set to be the latest addition to China's fleet of six nuclear-powered attack submarines.

Setback for People's Liberation Army

The sinking, which is believed to have taken place in May or early summer, represents a significant blow to the People's Liberation Army (PLA). The PLA has been rapidly working to enhance its naval power and technology. This effort has been overseen by President Xi, who has been leading a modernization of the PLA Navy for several years. The US official further alleged that China is attempting to hide the incident. The official, who chose to remain anonymous, told the WSJ, "It's not surprising that the PLA Navy would try to conceal the fact that their new first-in-class nuclear-powered attack submarine sank pierside."

Questions Raised About PLA's Accountability

The incident has raised questions not only about training standards and equipment quality but also about the PLA's internal accountability and oversight of China's defense industry, which has long been marred by corruption, according to the official. Satellite images from Planet Labs seem to confirm that the submarine sank. The WSJ report provides further details, "The Zhou-class vessel that sank is the first of a new class of Chinese nuclear-powered subs and features a distinctive X-shaped stern, designed to make the vessel more maneuverable." The report continues, "The sub was built by China State Shipbuilding Corp., a state-owned company, and was observed alongside a pier on the Yangtze River in late May when it was undergoing its final equipping before going to sea."

Salvaging Mission and Nuclear Fuel Concerns

Large floating cranes have been seen involved in a salvage operation at the site. There are also concerns about whether the submarine was carrying nuclear fuel at the time of the sinking. Analysts cited in the WSJ report suggest that it was 'likely'. Neither the Chinese government nor the PLA military have commented on the loss of the submarine, and it is unlikely they will.

Regional Tensions Rise Amid Defense Deals

Regional tensions have escalated due to a recent controversial defense deal between the US and Australia aimed at strengthening Australia’s naval defense. This comes amidst growing concerns among Western nations about China’s military expansion. The deal involves the US selling Australia three U.S. Virginia class nuclear-powered submarines, expected to be delivered in the 2030s, and potentially two more at a later date if needed. Beijing has strongly criticized the move, arguing that it is promoting an arms race. Russia and China have increasingly patrolled Pacific regional waters together in a show of collective strength against the US and its allies.

Bottom Line

This incident, if confirmed, could have significant implications for China's naval power and its relations with other nations. It raises questions about the PLA's accountability and the quality of its equipment. Furthermore, it could potentially exacerbate regional tensions, particularly in light of recent defense deals. What are your thoughts on this development? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.