🏹 🚢 🇨🇳 China Transforms Container Feeder into Arsenal Vessel | Mariner News

Recent open-source intelligence reveals that China’s arsenal ship strategy is taking an unconventional turn. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has reportedly transformed a standard container feeder, the Zhong Da 79, into a vessel equipped with significant missile capabilities. This surprising development underscores China’s aggressive approach to bolstering its naval power in the Western Pacific, posing new challenges for regional sea control.

The Zhong Da 79 Transformation Revealed

The vessel in question, Zhong Da 79, originally a 320-foot container feeder, has undergone a secretive refit. Imagery from Shanghai shows the ship now outfitted with multiple rows of quad-pack containerized Vertical Launch System (VLS) missile cells, strikingly resembling a frigate’s armament. Experts estimate this converted vessel could carry between 48 and 60 VLS cells, indicating a substantial increase in its combat potential.

Strategic Implications for Naval Power

This innovative use of a civilian vessel for military purposes highlights China’s adaptive maritime strategy. By converting a commonplace ship into a missile vessel, the PLA Navy can rapidly expand its combatant fleet, potentially circumventing traditional shipbuilding timelines. This move further complicates the U.S. Navy’s efforts to maintain sea control in a vital region, showcasing China’s commitment to modernizing its forces and projecting naval might. The emergence of such a Chinese arsenal vessel signifies a notable shift in naval warfare capabilities.

https://mariner.news/china-transforms-container-feeder-into-arsenal-vessel-mariner-news/

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🗓 🇨🇳 China will be imposing export restrictions on silver beginning in 5 days, on January 1st.

These restrictions will require special government licenses for silver exports.

Shanghai silver prices are now up to $85/oz, a ~$5 premium to spot prices in the US.

📎 KobeissiLetter

Italian authorities have arrested nine individuals in a major counter-terrorism operation targeting Hamas financing networks operating under the cover of charitable organizations, according to Italy’s anti-terrorism prosecutors.

The suspects are accused of channeling approximately €7 million ($8.2 million) to entities in Gaza, West Bank, and Israel that investigators say were owned, controlled, or influenced by Hamas, a group designated as a terrorist organization by the EU.

Prosecutors state that the funds were raised through three Italy-based charities, including organizations linked to the Association of Palestinians in Italy, and were presented publicly as humanitarian aid while being diverted for militant purposes. Among those arrested is Mohammad Hannoun, identified as a central figure in the network, along with several other individuals involved in fundraising, logistics, and financial transfers.

Authorities conducted coordinated raids, seized more than €8 million in assets, and stated that the operation was led by Italy’s anti-mafia and counter-terrorism units with international cooperation (most likely Israeli). The investigation is ongoing.