Image source: topwar.ru
A new Chinese "stealth" vessel, which had not previously been in sight, was spotted in two Chinese ports.
It has a catamaran design with a large hangar bay that occupies almost the entire deck. In China, some Type 022 missile boats have been modified and received similar large box-shaped superstructures. However, it is unclear what is placed in them in both cases. It is quite possible that there are drones there, both UAVs and back-up. Then we are talking about a marine drone carrier.
Image source: topwar.ru
The spacious cockpit above the bow indicates that the crew is supposed to be on board, but, apparently, like all new Chinese special-purpose vessels, it can optionally be autonomous, that is, remotely controlled.
In general, the design looks inconspicuous. A large lattice mast is installed above the bridge.
M80 Stiletto:
Image source: topwar.ru
Western observers believe that the design is similar to the American ship M80 Stiletto: this single prototype, built in 2006 from carbon fiber, is operated by the US Navy as a "floating laboratory" to test the latest technologies. It works out the launch and automatic reception of marine autonomous systems and UAVs, and tests are being conducted to combat swarms of enemy drones at sea.
