China’s enigmatic flat-top vessel, first sighted at a shipyard in Guangzhou in late October, has been photographed and filmed at sea, reportedly during its maiden voyage. The vessel, which bears the logo of the state-owned China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) instead of military insignia, remains shrouded in mystery.
The flat-top features a unique design with three island-like structures and lacks a well-dock or apparent hangar. Analysts speculate it could be an experimental carrier, amphibious landing dock, or a civilian research vessel. Defense analyst Tom Shugart initially identified the ship in satellite imagery in September, noting its dimensions of approximately 200 meters by 40 meters.
Observers have also linked its construction to the Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI), a facility known for both military and civilian vessel production, including advanced uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). While official details are scarce, the vessel’s swift construction underscores China’s growing shipbuilding capabilities.