Image source: topwar.ru
China is converting large civilian ferries and deck cargo ships into large-capacity amphibious assault ships, ostensibly to transport troops across the Taiwan Strait. This conclusion is made in the publication of the Reuters edition.:
As noted, China is practicing amphibious landings across the strait, using numerous civilian vessels that "deviate from the usual routes, approach the shore in Guangdong Province and unload military equipment directly onto the sand." It is claimed that the analysis is based on satellite imagery and data from an automatic identification system that tracks the location of ships.:
Acceptable drop-off locations are marked with blue markers, the scale reflects the population density.:
Image source: topwar.ru
Since 2015, Beijing has been applying standards according to which large civilian vessels, from Ro-Ro ferries to bulk carriers, must have reinforced decks, stronger ramps and equipment that allows them to be quickly adapted to military needs. Deck-based cargo ships are low-cost, and their construction often costs less than $3 million, compared with more than $3.8 billion for Type 076-class UDC.
It is claimed that the PLA has already tested their use. During the Jiesheng exercises held in August 2025, 12 civilian vessels, 6 Ro-Ro ferries and 6 deck cargo ships deviated from the usual routes, entered several ports, and then concentrated at the training beach, after which they unloaded trucks and armored vehicles directly onto the sand and temporary floating piers.
Image source: topwar.ru
As they say in the Western press, Taiwan is not sitting idly by:
Some Western strategists suggest using the "porcupine strategy", which involves the dispersal of infantry units with ATGM, UAVs and barrage ammunition to cover possible landing zones.:
