Type-035B (Ming)

The Type 035B (Ming class) is a diesel-electric attack submarine developed and operated by the People's Liberation Army Navy of China. It represents an improved variant of the Type 035, featuring enhanced sonar, quieter operation, and upgraded combat systems.

Developed in the early 2000s, the Type-035B was designed as an interim modernization step to upgrade China's aging Romeo-derived submarine fleet while more advanced indigenous designs were finalized. The variant entered service with the People's Liberation Army Navy around 2003, featuring a redesigned sail and hull structure reminiscent of the newer Type 039 class to improve hydrodynamics. Throughout their operational life, these submarines were primarily deployed for coastal defense, patrol missions, and crew training in the East and South China Seas. Although largely phased out of front-line Chinese service in favor of modern air-independent propulsion vessels, the Type-035B gained a second life in export markets, notably with a refurbished unit transferred to the Myanmar Navy in 2021.