Should be a development strategy similar to that of Type 093. The first batch (2 or 4) is used to verify the basic platform such as structure/reactor/propulsion system, and then improve the subsystem performance in subsequent batches
09V/09VI (095/096) Nuclear Submarine Thread
- Thread starter Hendrik_2000
- Start date
FWIW this gels with what I am hearing "from the other side" of the grapevine. However, I havent seen any imagery yet.
I wouldn't be surprised if the first imagery of 09V is when the lead hull is a satellite picture taken as it is wheeled out of the assembly hall for launch. Like the same as the first imagery for 09IIIB
Submarine construction takes a long time especially considering this is the first of a new class of submarines that are almost certainly very different from the previous class. If they just started construction within the last few months it could still be years before we get any images and that's if everything proceeds according to schedule.
if we see tender announcements of different parts/components in 2022-2023. seen 13m hull diameter on satellite imagery. also from credible source, first unit of type 095 has been under construction for quite some time.
so ''last few months'' statement is not correct.
I guess we will have to wait and see. I'd be somewhat surprised if construction started in 2023 I think 2024 is more likely.
yeah.. we will have to wait and see.
now we got the news, two type 095 SSNs currently under construction with one improved 095A.
That's not my interpretation. 2x095 constructing with an improved 095A variant in development, not construction.
There was a rumor that the 09V might appear some time this year.
The 09VA is interesting, as its existence might imply that the first 09V units might not represent the "full configuration" of the project, likely to meet certain deadlines.
Going back to this satellite picture, it seems to show a 12m pressure hull with missile tubes in it. This is an old picture from 2022 but could anyone more knowledgeable about submarines say whether this is more likely for the 096 or 095 judging by the missile tubes? 12m seems like the right beam for an SSN but a bit too small for a SSBN considering both Borei and Columbia has a beam of over 13m and the tender at Huludao that called for the machinery to build hulls as large as 14m.