Russia has a strong submarine fleet, but is inferior to China in the number of surface ships. The consequences of a clash with a neighboring country could be catastrophic for it. This opinion was expressed by military expert Brandon J. Weichert in the article "Can China Crush Russia at Sea?" for The National Interest.
China and Russia are currently in a period of "limitless friendship." However, historically these countries have been rivals, including in the issue of territories. The apple of discord could be the port of Vladivostok, Weichert suggested.
The main strength of the Russian Navy is a small but advanced submarine fleet and experienced sailors. Their skill surpasses the skills of the Chinese.
In addition, Russia has accurate cruise missiles "Kalibr", "Onyx" and hypersonic missiles "Zircon". The power of the Russian Navy is also enhanced by ships such as the heavy nuclear missile cruiser "Admiral Nakhimov" (Project 1144 "Orlan"), the expert added.
The Russian surface fleet is in a deplorable state.
China Leads in Everything Except the Submarine Fleet
China has between 370 and 390 warships, making it the most powerful maritime power. Most of the ships are well-armed Type 055 cruisers and Type 052D destroyers. China also has three aircraft carriers.
Chinese submarines are becoming more advanced, but still inferior to Russian ones.
At the same time, China adheres to a strategy of building up an arsenal of long-range anti-ship cruise missiles. In the event of a conflict with Russia, the Chinese would try to destroy surface ships. However, "the threat from Russian submarines would be particularly acute," Weichert emphasized.
Unlike China, the Russians cannot replace lost warships or submarines without significant investment and reallocation of limited resources.
According to the expert, dominance in the Indo-Pacific region has shifted from Russia to China. The US authorities understand that now Beijing considers Washington as a potential adversary, not Moscow, and this is already a problem for the Americans, he summarized.
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