China Continues Building Large Zubr-Type Amphibious Hovercraft
A recent image shared on Chinese social media appears to show another newly constructed Zubr-class air-cushioned landing craft. China acquired four such vessels from Ukraine and later developed the domestic Type 728, with at least five Chinese-built hulls reportedly completed. The expanding fleet may be relevant to possible military operations against Taiwan.
A new image circulating on Chinese social media since 21 September appears to show another domestically produced Zubr-type air-cushioned landing craft. China earlier obtained four from Ukraine—two completed there and two assembled locally from supplied kits—before developing the Type 728.
At least five Chinese-built hulls are reportedly finished, which could raise the total fleet to nine or more. The design can carry three tanks, eight to ten armored vehicles, or roughly 500 troops, and its speed and beach-landing ability may matter for operations across the Taiwan Strait.
The visible expansion of this hovercraft fleet may heighten regional security concerns, potentially affecting military planners, coastal communities, shipping, and publics in Taiwan and mainland China. It could influence perceptions of cross-strait risk, defense spending debates, and media attention. Because the vessels are tied to amphibious scenarios, any confirmed growth may add to uncertainty, though actual societal effects depend on broader political and military developments.