The PLAN is currently evaluating at least 3 types of XXLUUV (Extra-Extra Large Unmanned Underwater Vehicle) in the 42-45 m range. During the September 2025 Victory Parade, a torpedo-shaped XLUUV 18 m long was also displayed. For comparison, the US Boeing ORCA XLUUV measures from 15.5 to 26 m depending on whether a modular section is installed, while a conventional U-212A submarine is 56 m long.
A dedicated mothership for vehicles of this size supports a wide spectrum of missions, from “dual-use” and technical-logistic support to operational employment. XXLUUV platforms can damage underwater infrastructure, lay mines or sensor fields, conduct anti-submarine patrols, and run surveillance missions. A mothership extends their range of action and simplifies in-theater maintenance and resupply. The same design philosophy had already appeared, on a much smaller scale, on a civilian underwater support vessel launched in 2025 — effectively the commercial counterpart of the new mothership.
Only days after the Shanghai unit was identified, satellite imagery flagged a second, very similar vessel at the COMEC-GSI shipyard in Guangzhou. It is smaller and uses only 4 lifting pistons (2 pairs) to actuate the stern “cradle” that houses the underwater vehicles, against the 12 fitted on the HUDONG unit. Superstructure, funnel arrangement, stern dock, and internal hangar appear otherwise identical or very close. The two ships are almost certainly prototypes intended to let the PLAN mature experience before committing to series production — a reasonable approach, given that no other navy has pursued this configuration.
