China reportedly building barges amid fears of an invasion

China is reportedly constructing a series of “D-Day style” barges that could potentially aid in an invasion of Taiwan, as per reports from various media outlets. These barges have been spotted at Guangzhou Shipyard in southern China, with at least three of them observed, according to Naval News.

Inspired by the World War II “Mulberry harbours,” these portable harbors were utilized during the Allied campaign in Normandy, France, in 1944. The Telegraph reported that the new craft being built in China are reminiscent of these historic structures.

Tensions between China and Taiwan have been escalating in recent years due to Beijing’s refusal to recognize the independence of Taiwan. Naval News revealed in its recent report that at least three, possibly even more, barges were seen at Guangzhou Shipyard. These barges, measuring over 390 feet, have the capability to reach a coastal road or hard surface beyond a beach, allowing for strategic military operations.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping stated in his New Year’s message that the “reunification” with Taiwan is inevitable, emphasizing China’s stance on the matter. This statement further fueled concerns regarding a potential invasion of Taiwan by Chinese forces.

The use of these barges would enable Chinese forces to land in areas that were previously considered unsuitable for traditional amphibious operations. This includes rocky or soft terrain, as well as beaches where heavy equipment like tanks can be delivered to firmer ground or a coastal road for further deployment.

Emma Salisbury, a sea power research fellow at the Council on Geostrategy, highlighted the significance of a large fleet of ships for transporting personnel and equipment swiftly across the Taiwan Strait in the event of an invasion. The construction of these barges indicates China’s preparation for such a scenario or as a strategic leverage point in negotiations.

Fox News Digital has initiated communication with the Department of Defense, the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Washington for further insights on this matter. The evolving situation between China and Taiwan underscores the importance of monitoring developments in the Indo-Pacific region closely.