From cargo to combat: China urged to prepare civilian ships for wartime use

Chinese authorities are being urged to accelerate preparations for converting civilian ships into wartime assets, following recommendations from a defense researcher affiliated with one of the country's leading economic planning bodies. The call comes amid rising concerns over maritime security and intensifying global power rivalries, suggesting that Beijing must consider more actively utilizing its vast civilian fleet to bolster military operations. This advice was outlined in an article published recently in Defence Industry Conversion in China, authored by Li Jin, who works at the Research Centre for Coordinated Economic and National Defence Development under the National Development and Reform Commission. Li Jin emphasized that as China's strategic interests expand further into maritime regions, the need for robust maritime protection and operational capabilities has become increasingly evident. He pointed to historical examples, particularly Britain's utilization of commercial vessels during the 1982 Falklands War, as a model for how civilian ships can be effectively integrated into military efforts. According to the article, Britain managed to mobilize numerous civilian vessels swiftly after the onset of hostilities, employing them for transporting aircraft, fuel, and other essential supplies, along with performing medical and logistical roles. The article highlights several key elements that Britain successfully implemented during the Falklands conflict. These include maintaining a substantial reserve of civilian vessels, developing detailed mobilization strategies, designing ships with defensive considerations in mind, and establishing efficient mechanisms for compensating and incentivizing vessel owners and operators. Li Jin argues that similar approaches could be beneficial for China, given its extensive civilian shipping industry. To facilitate this transition, the article suggests conducting a thorough assessment of China's civilian fleet to create a comprehensive database. This would involve collecting data on the speed, carrying capacity, ownership structure, and crew qualifications of each vessel, with particular attention paid to those deemed to have significant military utility, such as oil tankers and semi-submersible ships. Additionally, the proposal includes drafting specific plans that outline command structures, communication protocols, contingency response procedures, and criteria for selecting which vessels should be mobilized in times of crisis. The push for preparing civilian ships for possible wartime use reflects broader strategic considerations within China's national defense framework. As tensions rise in various parts of the world and regional disputes persist, ensuring the readiness of all available resources, both military and civilian, is becoming a priority. The integration of civilian assets into military logistics and operations represents a shift towards a more flexible and adaptive approach to national security challenges. Experts suggest that implementing these measures would require coordination across multiple sectors, including government agencies, private enterprises, and international partners. Establishing clear guidelines and incentives will be crucial to ensure cooperation among stakeholders while addressing potential legal and ethical issues related to the seizure or repurposing of civilian property during conflicts. The proposed initiatives align with ongoing discussions about enhancing China's maritime capabilities and securing its interests in critical waterways. By leveraging its considerable civilian shipping infrastructure, China aims to strengthen its overall strategic posture and respond more effectively to emerging threats. The emphasis on preparedness underscores the recognition that modern warfare increasingly involves complex, multi-domain operations where traditional military forces alone may not suffice. The article serves as a call to action for policymakers and planners to take proactive steps toward integrating civilian maritime assets into national defense strategies. It outlines practical steps that could be taken immediately, emphasizing the importance of foresight and preparation in safeguarding national interests against evolving security landscapes.