The Visakhapatnam-class destroyer, a cornerstone of the Indian Navy’s modernisation efforts under Project 15B, and the Type 055 destroyer, China’s formidable Renhai-class cruiser, embody their respective nations’ ambitions to project naval power in an increasingly contested maritime domain. These warships, designed for multi-dimensional warfare, showcase cutting-edge technology and strategic intent, yet their approaches diverge in scale, capability, and operational philosophy. This analysis explores their design, weaponry, sensors, propulsion, stealth features, aviation capabilities, and anti-submarine systems, weaving a distinctive narrative that contrasts these naval titans.
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| INS Visakhapatnam class destroyer |
The Visakhapatnam-class destroyer, crafted at Mazagon Dock Limited as part of India’s push for self-reliance, is a refined evolution of the Kolkata-class (Project 15A). With a displacement of roughly 7,400 tonnes, a length of 163 metres, and a beam of 17.4 metres, it is a compact yet versatile platform designed for agility and multi-role operations in the Indian Ocean. Conversely, the Type 055, constructed by China’s Jiangnan and Dalian shipyards for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), is a behemoth, displacing between 10,000 and 12,000 tonnes, stretching approximately 180 metres in length, and boasting a beam exceeding 20 metres. This size disparity underscores the Type 055’s cruiser-like role, enabling it to serve as a command hub for carrier strike groups, while the Visakhapatnam-class is tailored as a frontline destroyer, optimised for regional dominance and fleet defence.
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| Type 055 destroyer |
Armament forms the heart of their combat prowess, and here the Type 055’s sheer scale provides a numerical edge. The Visakhapatnam-class carries 16 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, a product of Indo-Russian ingenuity, capable of striking at Mach 2.8 with a 295-kilometre range for both anti-ship and land-attack missions. These are deployed via two eight-cell universal vertical launch modules (UVLM) positioned forward, offering precision and speed. For air defence, the destroyer mounts 32 Barak-8 surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), a joint India-Israel venture with a 150-kilometre range, adept at neutralising aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and drones. The Type 055, however, wields a formidable 112-cell vertical launch system, split between 64 cells forward and 48 aft, capable of deploying a versatile arsenal. This includes HHQ-9 SAMs with a comparable 120-150 kilometre range, YJ-18 anti-ship cruise missiles for maritime strikes, CJ-10 land-attack cruise missiles for long-range precision, and missile-launched anti-submarine torpedoes. The Type 055’s VLS, built to the GJB 5860-2006 standard, supports both hot and cold launches and accommodates larger munitions, potentially including hypersonic or anti-ship ballistic missiles, giving it a broader offensive repertoire compared to the Visakhapatnam’s focused yet potent missile suite.
Gunnery further distinguishes the two. The Visakhapatnam-class is equipped with a 127mm main gun, an upgrade from the Kolkata-class’s 76mm, delivering enhanced firepower for surface engagements and limited anti-air roles, as well as shore bombardment. The Type 055 counters with an H/PJ-38 130mm main gun, offering marginally superior range and impact, though it lacks a muzzle brake for recoil management, unlike some of China’s smaller destroyers. For close-range defence, the Visakhapatnam-class relies on four AK-630M 30mm close-in weapon systems (CIWS), strategically placed to thwart missiles and aircraft at short ranges. The Type 055 integrates an 11-barrel 30mm H/PJ-11 CIWS and a 24-cell HHQ-10 short-range SAM system, creating a robust layered defence. The Type 055’s CIWS and SAM combination likely benefits from tighter integration with its advanced sensors, while the Visakhapatnam’s AK-630M, though less modern, remains a proven workhorse in high-intensity scenarios.
Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) is a shared priority, reflecting the growing submarine threat in their respective theatres. The Visakhapatnam-class is armed with two twin 533mm torpedo launchers, deploying the DRDO-developed Varunastra heavyweight torpedo, optimised for deep-water engagements. These are supplemented by two RBU-6000 rocket launchers, capable of delivering ASW projectiles to depths of up to 1,000 metres. The Type 055 employs 324mm triple torpedo tubes, likely launching Yu-7 lightweight torpedoes, and leverages its VLS for missile-launched ASW torpedoes, offering extended reach. The Visakhapatnam’s Varunastra provides raw power for close-in submarine hunting, while the Type 055’s VLS-based ASW capability adds flexibility, allowing it to engage submerged threats at longer ranges. Sonar systems bolster these capabilities. The Visakhapatnam-class integrates the BEL HUMSA-NG hull-mounted sonar and BEL Nagin towed array sonar, enabling precise tracking of multiple subsurface targets. The Type 055’s sonar suite, though less documented, likely includes a hull-mounted system and possibly a towed array, optimised for blue-water operations and networked with other PLAN assets. The Visakhapatnam’s indigenous sonar reflects India’s technological strides, while the Type 055’s systems are designed for seamless integration within China’s data-centric naval architecture.
Aviation capabilities enhance their versatility. The Visakhapatnam-class features a hangar and helideck for two multi-role helicopters, such as the Sea King or HAL Dhruv, with a rail-less traversing system ensuring safe operations in rough seas—a practical innovation over its predecessor. The Type 055 also supports two helicopters, typically Z-9 or Ka-28 ASW models, with a larger stern helideck and potentially greater aviation stores due to its size. Both platforms benefit from dual-helicopter operations for ASW, reconnaissance, and targeting, but the Type 055’s larger deck may offer marginal advantages in handling larger or multiple rotary assets simultaneously.
Stealth and survivability are paramount. The Visakhapatnam-class incorporates advanced stealth features, including a redesigned bridge to reduce radar cross-section (RCS), radar-absorbent deck fittings, and a hull optimised for low detectability. Its Total Atmosphere Control System (TAC) and nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protective measures ensure resilience in hostile environments. The Type 055 mirrors these priorities with a sleek superstructure, integrated sensor masts, and reduced infrared and electromagnetic signatures. Its larger size may increase its radar profile, but advanced materials and design mitigate this. Both ships feature robust damage control and redundant power systems, though the Visakhapatnam’s 75% indigenous content, including its Combat Management System and Ship Data Network, underscores India’s self-reliance, while the Type 055’s systems are deeply embedded in China’s defence ecosystem.
Sensors are a critical battleground. The Visakhapatnam-class mounts the Israeli EL/M-2248 MF-STAR S-band AESA radar for multi-target tracking and engagement, paired with the Thales LW-08 D-band radar for 270-kilometre surveillance. The DRDL Shakti EW suite counters modern threats. The Type 055’s dual-band radar system, with S-band Type 346B Dragon Eye AESA panels and X-band arrays, offers superior power and sensitivity, potentially supporting anti-satellite roles. The Visakhapatnam’s sensors are highly capable for its destroyer role, but the Type 055’s suite is tailored for cruiser-level command and networked warfare.
Propulsion reflects their operational needs. The Visakhapatnam-class uses a COGAG system with four gas turbines, achieving over 30 knots and a 4,000-nautical-mile range. The Type 055’s COGAG setup, with four QC-280 turbines, matches this speed but likely extends range due to greater fuel capacity. Neither supports integrated electric propulsion, limiting future upgrades, though the Type 055’s size makes it a better candidate for such advancements.
In essence, the Visakhapatnam-class is a nimble, self-reliant destroyer optimised for regional dominance, while the Type 055 is a global power-projection platform with unmatched missile capacity and networked capabilities. The Indian destroyer excels in focused, high-intensity roles, while the Chinese cruiser’s scale and versatility position it for expeditionary missions. Each reflects its navy’s strategic vision, shaped by unique geopolitical imperatives.