China’s Construction of Amphibious Barges Fuels Taiwan Invasion Concerns “`

Reports indicate China is constructing a series of large barges, similar in design to the World War II “Mulberry harbours,” potentially for a Taiwan invasion.

At least three, possibly five or more, of these vessels have been sighted at Guangzhou Shipyard, according to Naval News.

These barges, inspired by the Allied Normandy invasion harbors, are over 390 feet long, as reported by The Telegraph. Their design allows them to transport equipment to coastal roads or firm ground, even beyond beaches.

Tensions remain high between China and Taiwan due to Beijing’s rejection of Taiwan’s independence.

Naval News’s report detailed the barges’ capability to reach areas previously considered unsuitable for landing, including rocky or soft terrain, facilitating the delivery of personnel and heavy equipment.

In his New Year’s address, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated the inevitability of Taiwan’s “reunification” with mainland China, emphasizing the shared familial bonds between the two.

Emma Salisbury, a sea power expert at the Council on Geostrategy, explained to Naval News that a large-scale invasion would necessitate numerous vessels for rapid transport of personnel and equipment, particularly armored vehicles.

She highlighted the construction of such barges as preparation, or at least a means of leverage, for a potential invasion.

Digital has contacted the Department of Defense, the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Washington, D.C. for comment.

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