Built by China’s state-owned defense corporation Norinco to strengthen the country’s amphibious assault capabilities, the Type 05 entered service in 2005, with multiple variants introduced for different missions. Likely influenced by the canceled U.S. Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) program, the Type 05 remains a key asset in China’s amphibious forces.
China’s Type 05 reshaped amphibious warfare
Made for amphibious assaults, the Type 05 features a streamlined hull, an extendable bow, and a retractable suspension system, allowing speeds of up to 18.6 m/h (30 km/h) in water. It is powered by two rear-mounted water jets and a diesel engine that generates 1,500 hp in waterborne mode and 550 hp on land.