Pursuant to previous theorising regarding a prospective Sino-Kirov...
Where the Americans have enough ships and bases to maintain constant "presence" in sensitive waters around the globe, the Russian model, is one of an independent task force and this model favours a few large ships over many medium-sized ones.
For the foreseeable future, Chinese naval power projection capabilities beyond the first and second island chains seem destined to fall somewhere between the Russian and American models in terms of sustaining presence. While it may be possible by 2030 for China to sustain a carrier group in the Indian Ocean / Persian Gulf region, such a group will be a long way from assistance should it be needed. Under such circumstances, I believe there is a place for a Sino-Kirov able to bring the firepower of multiple destroyer-sized combatants to bear.
To reiterate: the vessel I am considering runs something along the following lines...
30,000 tons displacement
Nuclear propulsion
Featuring the most powerful radar systems ever fitted to a surface combatant
256-320 VLS cells (most dedicated to offensive weapons, 055-class defensive loadout plus ABM capabilities)
Robust railgun or naval artillery support (Zumwalt-class or better)
Relatively modest airborne component (maybe +50% hanger space vs. 055)
Essentially the vessel would combine elements of the American DDX, CGX, and SSGN programs. I envision 6-8 units, enough for 1 to accompany each carrier plus a couple extras either for independent ops or to cover/provide fire support for amphibious groups.
To reiterate the advantages that this vessel would bring over 2-3 055-class vessels:
Greater range, speed, endurance.
Powerful radar providing unparalleled performance against VLO aggressors (shared resource with battlegroup)
More offensive firepower (4-6x 055)
Symbolic value
