China’s Navy Deploys Electronic Warfare Tactics Near Taiwan

Footage released by Chinese state media in late January and February 2026 shows the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) employing electronic jamming missiles and advanced radar systems during encounters with foreign aircraft near Taiwan. This marks a rare public demonstration of China’s electronic warfare capabilities and its evolving approach to regional deterrence.

Rare Footage Reveals Electronic Countermeasures

On January 29, 2026, China’s Central Television (CCTV) aired footage of the Type 055 guided-missile destroyer Yanan tracking approaching aircraft near Taiwan. The South China Morning Post reported that this was the first time the Yanan had been publicly shown using “electronic countermeasures” in the waters near Taiwan. The footage showed the crew preparing for potential threats, expanding radar search ranges, and ultimately launching electronic jamming missiles.

How the Encounter Unfolded

The CCTV footage detailed a sequence beginning with watchstanders scanning the horizon and officers monitoring displays. As aircraft approached, a crew member ordered the starboard side to prepare. The Yanan detected multiple batches of aircraft repeatedly changing direction. The destroyer then switched its radars to high power to expand the search range and prepare missiles for both active and passive jamming. Following verification of the aircraft’s presence by three aircraft dispatched from the aircraft carrier Shandong, the Yanan launched four electronic jamming missiles.

Electronic Warfare Tactics Explained

The footage highlights China’s focus on electronic warfare as a key component of its naval strategy. Active jamming uses directed emissions to interfere with enemy sensors, while passive jamming employs countermeasures to complicate radar tracking. Indian Defence Review explains that the Yanan was attempting to distort the electronic picture around itself, making it harder to target.

Broader Context and Regional Tensions

The release of this footage coincided with heightened regional tensions, including a major U.S. Arms sale to Taiwan and diplomatic friction with Japan. MSN noted that the timing of the release suggests a calculated messaging effort by Beijing. Another Type 055 destroyer, the Nanchang, was also shown maneuvering near the Liaoning carrier group to prevent foreign vessels from approaching, further illustrating a pattern of fleet operations.

The Type 055 Destroyer: A Key Asset

The Type 055 destroyer, like the Yanan, is considered one of the most advanced surface combatants in the PLAN. These 11,000-ton warships are designed to escort aircraft carriers and operate independently, equipped with powerful sensors and electronic warfare systems. They represent a significant advancement in China’s naval capabilities.

Key Takeaways

• The PLAN demonstrated its electronic warfare capabilities near Taiwan through the use of jamming missiles and advanced radar systems.
• The footage released by CCTV provides a rare public glimpse into the PLAN’s operational procedures and response to foreign aircraft.
• The timing of the release coincides with increased regional tensions and highlights China’s commitment to defending its interests in the Taiwan Strait.
• Type 055 destroyers are central to China’s blue-water naval doctrine, combining firepower with advanced electronic warfare capabilities.