Russia's Contribution to China's Surface Warfare Capabilities

The provision of advanced Russian military technology has been critical for the development of Chinas anti-access/area-denial (A2AD) capability. This study focuses on one aspect of the relationship, namely Russias contribution to the PLA Navys surface and anti-surface warfare capabilities. Following a discussion of the role of the fleet in Chinas A2AD strategy, the author examines in depth the specific warships, anti-ship missile systems, and air defense systems that Russia has been providing. Next, he considers specifically how Russian technology has translated into new military capability for Chinas maritime forces. Finally, he offers a projection of the likely future direction of Russian assistance in this area. While China has made enormous progress in developing its indigenous defense production capability, this report makes the case that Russian defense assistance has been, is, and will likely continue to be important for the development of Chinas surface warfare capabilities and its A2AD project more broadly.