China develops next-gen amphibious military vehicle with unmanned turret
China is developing the next generation of amphibious infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) to replace the existing Type 05 family, according to a new post on X (formerly Twitter) by the handle OedoSoldier.
The new amphibious IFV, identified by hull number 003, appears to feature an unmanned turret with no visible crew positions and may integrate multiple sensor systems for target acquisition and active defense, potentially forming part of a hard-kill active protection system (APS).
The vehicle is armed with a 30mm autocannon, similar to the ZBD-05, but no visible Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) launcher, which may be mounted on the other side of the turret. The hull features changes like adjusted road wheel spacing and a modified rear transom flap, likely improving hydrodynamics and amphibious maneuverability.
Unlike Western designs that rely on composite or NERA armor as layered passive protection, adding significant weight, the Chinese model emphasizes active defenses better suited for light vehicles with limited conventional armor, Army Recognition writes.
China is also developing a larger variant of the Type 05, with modified road wheel spacing and a redesigned hull. The vehicle, marked with hull number 005, features an updated turret and a partially faceted barrel, suggesting upgraded armament and an expanding amphibious combat vehicle family that may include assault tanks or support variants.
Thus, Beijing's strategy may involve securing air superiority before deploying these IFVs and amphibious tanks in armored landing operations. Developed in the early 2000s to replace the aging Type 63A amphibious tank, the Type 05 amphibious combat vehicle family was designed to meet the PLA's need for a high-speed, over-the-horizon deployment vehicle with enhanced firepower.
Built by China's state-owned defense corporation Norinco to strengthen the country's amphibious assault capabilities, the Type 05 entered service in 2005, with multiple variants introduced for different missions. Likely influenced by the canceled U.S. Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) program, the Type 05 remains a key asset in China's amphibious forces.
Made for amphibious assaults, the Type 05 features a streamlined hull, an extendable bow, and a retractable suspension system, allowing speeds of up to 18.6 m/h (30 km/h) in water. It is powered by two rear-mounted water jets and a diesel engine that generates 1,500 hp in waterborne mode and 550 hp on land.
Its aluminum alloy construction keeps it lightweight while providing limited protection against small arms fire and shell fragments. A composite armor reinforces key areas like the turret. The fire-control system includes thermal imaging, a laser rangefinder, and independent sights for the commander and gunner, improving target detection and engagement. Optimized for coastal operations, the Type 05 enables rapid amphibious landings.
The ZBD-05 serves as the infantry fighting vehicle, armed with a 30mm autocannon and anti-tank guided missiles to support infantry. The ZTD-05 is an amphibious assault vehicle, equipped with a 105mm rifled gun capable of firing both kinetic and guided munitions
Other variants include command and control vehicles, reconnaissance units, armored recovery vehicles, and engineering support models. These different versions enable the Type 05 platform to carry out a wide range of amphibious operations, including direct assault, logistical support, and battlefield coordination, which has proven to be crucial for enhancing the operational flexibility and effectiveness of China's amphibious forces in various combat and support scenarios.
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