A second Chinese vessel suspected of being designed for launching and recovering large underwater drones has been observed in Guangzhou, fueling speculation about Beijing’s ambition to expand its undersea capabilities. The vessel, approximately 200 metres in length, was spotted on the Pearl River and bears a striking resemblance to a ship seen at a Shanghai shipyard last month. These sightings suggest China may be developing a specialized fleet of “motherships” designed to operate beyond its coastal areas. The purpose of these vessels—and the drones they would carry—remains unclear, though analysts suggest they could be used for a variety of missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, and potentially offensive operations. This development raises questions about China’s growing naval reach and its intentions in the region. The appearance of these ships indicates an increased investment in advanced underwater technology.