OVERVIEW: The Type 093B Shang III is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) operated by the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). Entering service in 2019, it represents a significant advancement in Chinese submarine technology.

DETAILS: The Type 093B Shang III-class represents a further evolution of the Type 093 Shang-class SSN. Its development reflects the PLAN's ongoing efforts to modernize its submarine force and enhance its anti-surface warfare (ASuW), anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and land-attack capabilities. Design changes from earlier Shang variants are believed to incorporate noise reduction measures, including improved hull shaping, anechoic tile coating, and enhanced internal isolation, making the Type 093B more difficult to detect. The raised missile compartment suggests a Vertical Launch System (VLS) for anti-ship or land-attack cruise missiles, significantly increasing the submarine's offensive potential. These advancements are aimed at providing the PLAN with a more capable and survivable platform for projecting power and protecting its maritime interests.

The primary roles of the Type 093B are ASW, ASuW, and intelligence gathering. The submarine’s improved acoustic signature makes it a more effective hunter of enemy submarines, while the VLS provides a potent ASuW capability against surface combatants. The vessel’s advanced sensor suite allows for effective area surveillance and target acquisition. The installation of the China Type 921-A 'Golf Ball' radar allows for over-the-horizon targeting of anti-ship missiles. The presence of a Signal Ejector and Generic SIGINT equipment indicates a continued focus on intelligence gathering missions, capable of intercepting and analyzing enemy communications. Furthermore, the submarine's potential for deploying land-attack cruise missiles provides the PLAN with a valuable strategic strike option.

Technically, the Type 093B is equipped with a comprehensive suite of sensors and weapons. The TSM 2233 Eledone sonar system, likely including the DSUV 2H towed array and DUUA 2D flank array, provides long-range detection and tracking capabilities. The China SQC-207 sonar suite offers enhanced close-range detection. The TSM 2255 and TSM 2243 are likely fire control sonars, used for precise targeting of both torpedoes and missiles. The China SJG-206A TASS towed array sonar further enhances ASW capabilities by detecting faint acoustic signatures at long ranges. For situational awareness and navigation, the vessel utilizes Generic Submarine Periscopes, one equipped with Optical sensors and the other with Low Light Television (LLTV). The China H/LQK-359A radar serves as a surface search and navigation radar. The 533mm torpedo tubes allow for the employment of a variety of torpedoes and anti-ship missiles, while the China VLS provides the capability to launch cruise missiles.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 110.0 m || Beam: 11.2 m || Draft: 8.0 m || Disp: 6000 t

SENSORS: TSM 2233 Eledone [DSUV 2H + DUUA 2D] || China Type 921-A Golf Ball || China SQC-207 || TSM 2255 || TSM 2243 || China SJG-206A TASS || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV || China H/LQK-359A || Generic SIGINT

ARMAMENT: Signal Ejector || China VLS [24 Cells] || 533mm TT