China’s Amphibious “Invasion Barges” Pose a Serious Threat, Analysts Warn

China’s “invasion barges” have raised concerns among military analysts, who believe these vessels may be more capable than previously thought. A recent analysis published by the Wall Street Journal sheds light on the potential threat posed by these unique amphibious logistics enablers.

In January, analysts observed a set of three distinct vessels at Guangzhou Shipyard, each equipped with jackup legs, a central open deck, and a massive hinged bridge section. These barges, identified as amphibious logistics enablers, are designed to bridge the surf zone and transfer large volumes of military cargo after securing a beachhead.

During a beach logistics exercise in Zhanjiang, China, the three barges were seen interconnected by their bridges, spanning over 2,000 feet into the water. This configuration allows them to directly interface with up to five deep sea ro/ro ships simultaneously, raising concerns about their potential military capabilities.

Former U.S. Navy officer and defense analyst Tom Shugart highlighted the significance of these barges, noting their ability to receive and offload ro/ro ferries carrying military vehicles. The use of civilian ro/ro ferries for military logistics further adds to the concern, as China’s ro/ro ferry fleet could support an amphibious assault operation.

The deployment of these barges could significantly impact Taiwan’s defense strategy, as the ability to deliver vehicles directly to the beach without capturing a port could pose a serious challenge for Taiwan’s defenses. This development has prompted analysts to reassess the potential risks associated with a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

Overall, the analysis underscores the evolving nature of China’s amphibious capabilities and the need for heightened vigilance in the region. As geopolitical tensions continue to escalate, understanding and monitoring these advancements will be crucial for maintaining regional stability.