As the U.S. Navy debates the future of ‘Trump-class’ battleships, other navies are advancing their own visions of ultra-large surface combatants. New evidence reveals that China is constructing an even larger design, signalling a shift in naval priorities.
China’s naval modernization is accelerating at a remarkable pace, marked by the steady rollout of new destroyers, cruisers, aircraft carriers, and submarines from its shipyards. As this expansion gathers momentum, it fuels a growing sense of anticipation. Observers are left watching closely for the next ambitious construction project to take shape.
Until today, a large warship under construction at China’s Dalian shipyard has been reported as the country’s next aircraft carrier. Fresh analysis, combined with reports from internet experts, reveal that this is in fact the country’s first super-sized battleship. The 80,000 ton behemoth is expected to be launched in 2027, years ahead of competing designs elsewhere.
Naval Arms Race
Of note, the vessel is considerably larger than the Trump-class battleship. It is closer in size to aircraft carriers yet without the large overhanging flight deck. The Trump-class battleship, which was revealed by U.S. President Trump in a news conference in December 2025, marked a significant departure from warship design trends. That ship will be 260 meters (840 ft) long and 35 meters (115 ft) across and displace over 35,000 tons. The Chinese design is around 50 meters (164 ft) longer and 10 meters (32 ft) wider and will displace more than twice as much.
The Russian Navy’s Kirov-class battle cruisers, which are also nuclear powered, are also dwarfed by the Chinese design. That vessel, currently arguably the most powerful surface combatant afloat, displaces only 28,000 tons.
Super-Battleship
Two large square voids visible in the construction reveal the position and size of the main VLS (vertical launch system) magazine. Major warships are often measured in terms of the number of VLS cells they have. Estimates suggest that the Chinese super battleship will have over 200 VLS cells, far more than lesser designs. And these cells will likely carry new quantum hydrosonic weapons.
The main gun battery is reportedly to contain at least 3 rail guns. This is a technology which China has been testing for years. High-powered lasers, strong enough to threaten low-earth-orbit satellites, will provide anti-missile and air defence.
The central citadel, referred to as Xi Tower in Chinese language sources, has 12 decks and offers commanding sea views from the upper stories. The navigation bridge, where the Captain sits, is topped by the flag bridge for Admirals. And above that the viewing bridge for the Political Commissars. The uppermost floor is divided into four apartments. The private club and other hosting facilities are expected to outshine those of the Trump-class, an advantage in gunboat diplomacy.
Floating Fortress Concept
As the Great Powers move to the Floating Fortress stage of international competition, naval might is being measured in square footage. The sheer scale of this vessel suggests a shift in naval doctrine: from outmaneuvering the enemy to simply obstructing their freedom of navigation.
Now China is building a vessel with the square footage of a mid-sized suburb. It has stopped being a naval arms race and has become a hostile real estate takeover of the Pacific.
BALLS
The new super-battleship under construction in china is rumored to be known locally as project Type XXX. Naval News understands the tentative NATO reporting name is an acronym: BALLS (for Battle Assault Littoral Laser Ship, obviously).