China's latest Type 055 Destroyer 'Zunyi' showcases dominance in South China Sea drills

In a recent combat-oriented exercise in the South China Sea, China's recently commissioned 10,000-ton-class large destroyer, the 'Zunyi,' exhibited its capabilities, according to a report by the state-controlled publication Global Times. The drills showcased the vessel's prowess in air defense, anti-missile maneuvers, and sea assault combat scenarios. The seventh vessel of the Type 055 destroyer, codenamed 'Zunyi,' entered service with the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) earlier this year, making its first public appearance in January.  

The recent exercises, as reported by China Central Television (CCTV) and Global Times on November 15, underlined the destroyer's solo fighting capabilities in far-seas combat, affirming its role in protecting maritime sovereignty. Furthermore, the guided missile destroyer Hangzhou (Hull 136) under the PLA Eastern Theater Command sailed in formation with Zunyi during the exercise. 

Combat maneuvers and successful counterattacks 

During the South China Sea drills, the 'Zunyi' demonstrated its advanced early warning and detection systems, successfully intercepting airborne targets with precision. The destroyer engaged in realistic air defense, anti-missile, and sea assault combat maneuvers, showcasing its agility and counterattack capabilities. The ship's response to a hostile vessel approaching during training included effective use of jammer rounds and the deployment of its close-in weapon system, culminating in the destruction of the target with its main cannon. 

The 'Zunyi' actively handled challenging air and sea crises throughout the multi-day exercises, completing over a dozen training courses. These included light arms firing, helicopter-vessel integrated search and rescue, and coordination with small boats. The primary goal, according to Zhang Shuliang, a member of an undisclosed detachment under the navy of the PLA Southern Theater Command, was to thoroughly understand the destroyer's capabilities and expedite its use in systematic joint combat. 

Tensions in the South China Sea 

However, these drills unfolded against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the South China Sea, with recent belligerent encounters between Chinese and Filipino vessels. The region has witnessed a series of territorial disputes, prompting a collision between the two nations' vessels. The United States has issued warnings and conducted Freedom of Navigation Operations in response to the escalating situation. 

China's Type 055 destroyer is a technological marvel with a hybrid gas and gas propulsion system, offering extended operational capabilities. Sailors on the vessel praise its anti-submarine weapons system, integrated radio frequency system, 130-millimeter naval cannon, and large missile-carrying capacity, providing exceptional combat capabilities. Notably, China's efficient production of Type 055 destroyers contrasts with the slower progress of the US Zumwalt-class destroyers. 

The exercises by the 'Zunyi' underscore China's growing naval fleet, posing challenges to regional adversaries and attracting global attention. Chinese observers emphasize that these exercises are not targeted at a specific country but assert that a powerful navy operating advanced warships like the Type 055 serves as a stabilizer for regional peace.