China’s naval modernisation programme continues to attract attention as observers point to the rapid expansion of its destroyer fleet and compare its production pace with that of the United States.
International media have referred to the Type 052D-class destroyer as ‘China’s Aegis’, highlighting its role in the country’s evolving naval capabilities.
Focus on modern destroyer classes
According to observers, China’s modernisation efforts are centred on the Type 052D and Type 055 destroyer classes as part of a multi-layered force structure intended to integrate various weapons systems while limiting construction costs.
Publicly available data cited in the report indicates that China has built 35 Type 052D destroyers and 10 Type 055 destroyers over the past decade, bringing the total number of large stealth destroyers in active service to 45.
During the same period, the report states that the US Navy added approximately 18 to 20 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers.
The commissioning of the Tongchuan, identified as the 35th Type 052D destroyer, together with the continued expansion of the Type 055 fleet, is presented in the report as evidence of China’s progress in strengthening its long-range naval capabilities.
Fleet size and future projections
Beyond its latest-generation vessels, the Chinese Navy also operates 17 older destroyers, including Type 052C, Type 052B, Type 051C, Type 051B, Type 052 and Russian-built Sovremenny-class ships.
The report states that plans to increase the number of next-generation destroyers to 59 would bring China’s overall destroyer fleet to 76 vessels, placing it on par with the United States Navy in terms of size.
It also claims that Chinese shipyards are producing more than six Type 052D and Type 055 destroyers annually, while US shipyards currently produce about 1.6 destroyers each year and face challenges including labour shortages, ageing equipment and supply chain disruptions.
Based on those figures, the report suggests that China could eventually surpass the United States in terms of the total number of destroyers in service if current production rates continue.
Capability comparisons remain broader than fleet numbers
The report further states that China currently operates 234 warships compared with 219 for the United States and projects that Beijing intends to expand its fleet to as many as 425 ships by 2030.
At the same time, it notes that numerical strength is only one measure of naval power.
According to the report, the United States continues to possess technological advantages, extensive combat experience, a global network of military bases, a sizeable nuclear submarine force and carrier-based air power. It also highlights US capabilities in fifth-generation fighter aircraft, including the F-35 and F-22 Raptor, as well as stealth bombers such as the B-2 Spirit and B-21.
The report adds that many of China’s stealth fighter programmes are comparatively newer and that debate continues over their operational capabilities and long-term performance.
