China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has deployed aluminium-hulled, low-tech Type 22 fast-attack missile boats in the South China Sea.
This action occurred as the United States enhanced its naval presence near China.
A recent report by China Central Television (CCTV) showcased the PLA Navy’s use of the boat in missions involving the interception of foreign warships and the protection of maritime rights in the contested South China Sea.
Initially fielded when the PLA Navy lacked significant blue-water capabilities, the Type 22 was designed to counter littoral threats.
As China emerged as a maritime power, the platform’s design advantages allow it to be used in various roles.
According to CCTV, the Type 22 has been routinely assigned to littoral patrols, escort duties, monitoring operations, and joint missions with China Coast Guard units.
In a recent training operation, a Type 22 boat commanded by Yang Wu from the PLA Eastern Theater Command intercepted a foreign naval warship that had allegedly entered Chinese territorial waters.
A warship entered the area, weighing between 8,000 and 9,000 tons. This is much larger than the 220-ton Type 22.
Even with this size difference, the Type 22 used quick movements, and firepower to reach the area quickly, strengthen its position, and confront the larger ship.
The tactical utility of speed over sheer size was again demonstrated.
Chinese military analyst Wang Yunfei, speaking to the Global Times, highlighted that the Type 22 was engineered for an era when coastal defense was paramount and the PLA Navy’s fleet of major surface combatants was minimal.
The Type 22 has a top speed of about 30 knots and can launch anti-ship missiles, making it a useful tool during its early use.
As the PLA Navy shifts to a mix of defending coastal areas and operating far out at sea, the Type 22 is still necessary.
The Type 22 can sail shallow waters and stay close to the coastal region.
The platform’s ongoing importance was reinforced during the PLA Navy’s 76th anniversary celebrations on April 23, when over 30 vessels, including the Type 22, were made accessible to the public.
Xinhua News Agency reported that the vessel features new technology. It is the Navy’s first catamaran missile boat and the main combat vessel that uses waterjet propulsion.
The Type 22 is mainly made of aluminium alloy to keep it light. It has a six-barreled 30 mm gun system, flares, and two launchers that can fire eight YJ-83 anti-ship missiles.
Despite its significantly smaller displacement, this gives the Type 22 firepower just two quad-pack YJ-83 anti-ship missiles.
The Type 22 missile boat is built for low-tech combat to help in combat. It is still used today, showing that China prioritises adaptable ships that can handle different tasks in harsh sea conditions.
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