Yimeng Shan was launched in January last year and started sea trials in September 2015 . The vessel is set to join the PLAN's East Sea Fleet (it will be the first vessel of the class for this fleet).



Yimengshan joins three vessels of the class already in service: Head of class Kunlun Shan (998) commissioned in 11/2007, Jinggang Shan (999) commissioned in 10/2011, Changbai Shan (989) commissioned in 09/2012. Two more vessels of the class are reportedly under construction at Hudong shipyard.



Type 071 landing platform dock

Type 071 (Yuzhao-class) LPD are the main amphibious platforms of the PLAN. They displace approximatly 25,000 tons, measure 210 meters long and 28 meters wide. The ship complement is 156 sailors plus 23 officers.

Each Type 071 has the capacity to accomodate one marine battalion, including 500 to 800 troops. During a visit in the UK, it was announced that the ship can carry up to 65 amphibious armored vehicles. The well deck was designed to hold four Yuyi-class LCAC. In addition, Type 071 LPDs can also supposedly carry 6 Z-8 medium (10 tons class) helicopters.

The ship is armed with one 76 mm gun and four 30 mm close-in weapon systems.

