During today, June 19, through a viralized video and subsequent captures, new images have surfaced of what is currently the most modern conventional attack submarine of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) of China. Known as the Type 039C, this new variant or class of submarines features a redesigned sail compared to its predecessors, the Type 039 Song and Type 039A Yuan.
The brief video shows the Type 039C during navigation and presumably its crew. For the first time on record, images have been captured from the sail of the submarine during what appears to be a test and system readiness journey.
A focal point of attention on this submarine is its redesigned sail, which is inclined and shaped like a “mushroom.” Various specialists have noted that this design choice aims to reduce the submarine’s acoustic signature, making it less detectable by enemy sonars. To date, this advanced technology present in this submarine variant would be unique in its class worldwide (currently, the design of future Swedish A26 submarines would incorporate similar design solutions).
Additionally, the submarine’s distinctive design includes a “mushroom”-shaped sail or conning tower, which only protrudes above the main body of the submarine when surfacing. This particular shape helps reduce vortex effects and resistance while dispersing enemy sonar echoes, enhancing underwater stability, maneuverability, and stealth.
While specifics were not provided, the disclosure of this new submarine through various Chinese channels suggests that acceptance tests and system integration for the Type 039C class are progressing well, hinting that the introduction of the first unit may be nearing. Previous videos and images captured indicated various navigation tests, such as those conducted earlier this year near the Yulin Naval Base located on Hainan Island.
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