Some major rumors breaking regarding the 093, 093B, and future submarines. The reason I posted this is because some other reliable observers have been saying the same thing recently.
A translation is greatly appreciated.
- There is no "09IVA" but rather a retrofit of existing 09IV submarines
- The 09III with the "hump" is actually designated "09IIIA", and serves as an interim (much like the 052B destroyer) between the 09III and the newest 09IIIB
- The 09IIIB is considered a "new" class of submarines (as corroborated by the CCTV reports of PLAN receiving a new type of submarine) and is rumored to carry six YJ-18 missiles vertically launched
- 09IIIB may be modified to carry more missiles in the future
- **Two fourth-generation submarines should be in construction simultaneously**
- First 4th-generation boat expected to launch in 2020 and serve in 2022
- All eight 4th-generation boats expected to be delivered by 2025-2030
Are the humped 09III retrofits of earlier 09IIIs?
This could explain the humped subs without the VLS. There are test or transition hulls to a new class of 9III.
New tweet from East Pendulum. China MSA reserving space for tests, two this time, one for certification of a new batch of carrier pilots to be held on the Liaoning, and the other for a new nuclear submarine.