China Is Getting Ready To Test Asia’s Largest Surface Warship

Wikipedia

Popular Science: China's Getting Ready to Turn on Asia's Biggest Warship

A landlocked test rig for the Type 055 Cruiser nears completion

The Type 055 cruiser test rig in Wuhan is well on its way to opening for business. Built to test the Type 055's sophisticated electronics and integrated stealth mast, the mockup now has major electronic sensors and systems installed, along with a coat of PLAN gray paint.

The Type 055 cruiser test rig made its Internet debut in March 2014 on Chinese websites. With a projected length of 160 to 180 meters, judging from the test rig's 140 to150 meter length (which does not include the entire helicopter landing pad nor bow forward of the turret), and a width of about 21 to 23 meters, it would displace about 12,000 to 14,000 tons. That would make the Type 055 cruiser the largest Asian surface warship since World War II's Japanese Tone class heavy cruisers.

Update #1: China's Testing Asia's Largest Warship -- National Interest
Update #2: Military Marvel: China Ready to Test Asia’s Largest Warship -- Sputnik

WNU Editor: These are just the first land base tests for China's new naval vessel .... but it does provide a clear indication on where China's navy is heading.