Houbei (class) / Type 22

History of the Houbei Ship (Class)/Type 22

China aimed to develop a navy comparable to the US Navy in its rise in the East. While not fully achieved, its naval expansion involves aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, and surface fighters. The Type 22 ships, initiated in 2004, contribute to this strategy by replacing older vessels and enhancing China's coastal defense capabilities.

Built by Shanghai Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding Company, the Type 22 is a high-speed missile attack craft powered by diesel engines and water jets. Its agility allows it to operate in diverse environments, including open water and near-shore regions. Armed with anti-ship missiles, a Gatling cannon, and surface-to-air missile launchers, the ship is well-equipped for both offensive and defensive actions.

The ship's modern design prioritizes stealth and reduced radar visibility. It has been actively involved in Chinese waters and exercises, serving strategic purposes near Taiwan until 2022.

Specification

Basic

Service Years: 2004

Origins: China

Status: In service

Complement: 12

Builders: Hudong Zhonghua Shipbuilding China

Carrier: China

Roles

Amphibious Assault

Shallow draft and other characteristics enable the ship to support nearshore amphibious assault operations.

Offshore Operations

Nearshore activities in support of Allied activities.

Notable Features

Main Turret

The main armament is mounted in the main turret arrangement providing enhanced protection.

Air Defense

Airborne systems warn and protect ships from airborne and low-altitude ballistic and/or missile threats.

Missile weapons

The ship supports long-range missile launches to air, sea or land-based targets; typical of modern design.

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS

Length: 139.8 ft (42.61 m)

Beam: 40.0 ft (12.19 m)

Draught: 4.1 ft (1.25 m)

Displacement: 225 tons

POWER & PERFORMANCE

Installed Power:

2 x Marine diesel-fueled engines developing 6,865 horsepower driving.

2 x Shafts astern.

4 x Waterjets for fine maneuvering.

Surface Speed: 36. 0 kts (41. 4 mph)

ARMAMENT

1 x 30mm KBP AO-18 (license-built AK-630) 6-barreled Gatling-style turreted deck gun.

8 x YJ-83 anti-ship missiles (in twin quadruple launchers).

1 x MANPAD shoulder-fired air-defense / Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) solution.