China’s recent maritime innovations, including massive barges and deep-sea cable cutters, have sparked concerns about their potential use in a future invasion of Taiwan. Satellite images show interconnected barges near Zhanjiang, which experts believe could function as makeshift piers for rapid deployment of tanks and vehicles in amphibious assaults. These barges, designed to transport heavy equipment, could be critical for China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) if Taiwan’s ports are damaged during conflict.

Additionally, Chinese researchers have developed a cable cutter capable of severing undersea cables at depths up to 4,000 meters, raising concerns over the vulnerability of Taiwan’s communication infrastructure. This tool, although still in experimental stages, could potentially disrupt military and civilian communication during an invasion.

Experts warn that while these technologies may seem civilian in nature, they highlight China’s growing military capabilities. The barges could significantly enhance PLA logistics, allowing for rapid land-sea deployment. However, their slow speed and vulnerability to attack limit their effectiveness in high-intensity combat.

As tensions with Taiwan grow, China’s evolving maritime technology is drawing increased attention from defense analysts worldwide.