China’s 'sea monster' returns armed: Beijing’s mystery war craft resurfaces with missile hooks

China’s mysterious “Bohai Sea Monster” has resurfaced with apparent weapons hardpoints, sparking fresh fears over a possible future conflict involving China and Taiwan. New imagery of the wing-in-ground-effect (WIG) aircraft shows underwing fittings that analysts believe could potentially carry anti-ship missiles, drones, torpedoes, or surveillance systems. The unusual low-flying maritime aircraft, first spotted near the Bohai Sea in 2025, is now drawing global attention because of its possible military role in the Pacific theater. Defense experts say the craft’s ability to skim low above water could help evade radar detection while rapidly transporting troops, weapons, or supplies across contested waters. Reports also suggest the aircraft may become part of Beijing’s long-term strategy under Xi Jinping to strengthen military capabilities around Taiwan and the South China Sea. Analysts warn the platform could eventually evolve into a larger armed variant designed for Pacific warfare, surveillance, anti-submarine missions, and rapid island operations. China’s “Sea Monster” now joins a growing list of advanced Chinese aerospace and naval projects reshaping the regional military balance.