China tests a new ekranoplane: the return of the 'sea monster' to the global stage

The mysterious return of ground effect vehicles has captured the attention of In recent months, following the emergence of images showing a previously unseen large ekranoplane developed by China, these aircraft, half ship and half plane, attracted the attention of analysts during the Cold War for their strategic potential and the almost mythical aura surrounding models such as the Soviet Lun, popularly known as the "Caspian Sea Monster."

Now, in the 21st century, China is reviving the tradition of ekranoplanes. with the sighting of a colossus over the Bohai Sea, whose silhouette and dimensions are strongly reminiscent of Soviet experiments. Images shared on Chinese social media and analyzed by experts such as HI Sutton confirm the existence of this new ground-effect vehicle, fueling debates about its possible use and impact on the regional military balance.

A design reminiscent of the Soviet giants

Recent photographs show a wide-body aircraft, matte grey in colour and with wing-mounted jet engines, following a typical configuration of ekranoplanes. The structure includes T- or V-tail, double vertical stabilizers and side floats, in addition to a large door for loading or disembarking, elements that suggest its orientation towards rapid military or logistics operations in aquatic environments.

The operation of this type of aircraft is based on the so-called «ground effect»: When flying at very low altitude over water, the compressed air between the wing and the surface increases lift and reduces drag, allowing large loads to be moved at high speed and with lower fuel consumption. Furthermore, its low operating altitude makes radar detection difficult and prevents the action of mines or submarines, providing tactical advantages in coastal scenarios.

Military and logistics applications in the Asian context

The speculations about the The role of the Chinese ekranoplane points to amphibious transport missions, landing support and island resupply. in potential conflict zones, such as the South China Sea or the Taiwan Strait. Its ability to operate independently of airfields or ports makes it a valuable tool in highly mobile conflicts, where speed and surprise are crucial.

The development of this device goes hand in hand with other Chinese projects like the AG600 seaplane—focused on rescue and firefighting—although the new ekranoplane would offer superior payload and range capabilities for military environments. The emergence of these vehicles demonstrates China's strategy to leverage WIG technologies to overcome vulnerabilities in modern scenarios, strengthening their presence in maritime operations.

A global trend: the ground effect war

China is not the only power interested in ekranoplanes: The United States is developing the Liberty Lifter under the supervision of DARPA., a heavy vehicle designed to transport troops and material across the sea without relying on fixed infrastructure. Europe and other powers are also exploring civil and military versions of these aircraft., although no project yet matches the dimensions of the Russian and Chinese models.

The return of ground effect vehicles responds to the demand for new solutions for military mobility in island and coastal environments, where airfields and ports may be vulnerable or nonexistent. Advances in materials, propulsion, and artificial intelligence provide a technological edge that could overcome the limitations that condemned Soviet ekranoplanes to oblivion decades ago.

Technical advances and doubts surrounding Chinese design

Available images They reveal a propulsion system that is not yet fully understood.The use of jet engines, unmounted propellers, or even advanced hybrid systems is being considered. Its low profile, aerodynamic configuration, and apparent focus on reducing radar signature position the prototype as a candidate for incorporating composite materials and stealth technologies.

For the moment, There is no official confirmation that the Chinese ekranoplane is ready to enter service.It could be an experimental prototype or a platform intended for conceptual testing before full-scale development. In any case, its mere display underscores the Chinese Navy's priorities and its willingness to compete in a segment where innovation can translate into immediate strategic advantages.

The striking "Bohai Sea Monster" has sparked renewed international interest in ekranoplane technology, highlighting the convergence of interests among China, the United States, and other powers in ground-effect platforms. If it can overcome its technical challenges and adapt to the current demands of maritime warfare and logistics, this type of vehicle has the potential to transform mobility in conflict zones, establishing a period in which primacy at sea and oceans may not reside exclusively in ships or aircraft.