Type 073 / 073A / 073III-class (Yudao / Yunshu / Yudeng)

The Type 073 is a family of medium landing ships operated by the People's Liberation Army Navy. The initial variant, designated by NATO as the Yundao class, entered commission in the early 1980s and served until 2012. These vessels are currently retired or maintained in reserve.

The Type 073III, NATO reporting name Yudeng, was built by Zhonghua Shipyard and commissioned in 1994. A single vessel of this configuration was completed. Following its decommissioning in 2010, the ship was converted for service as a supply vessel in the South China Sea. This modification included the installation of a crane and two deck hatches.

The Type 073A, also designated as the Type 074IV or by the NATO reporting name Yunshu, is based on the Type 073III design. Production of this class occurred between 2003 and 2004 at Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard, Lushun Shipyard, Qingdao Naval Dockyard, and Wuhu Shipyard. Ten vessels were completed and remain in active service.

In terms of design and capability, these ships are configured to transport amphibious assault vehicles, troops, or cargo. The vessels utilize two diesel engines driving two shafts. Electronic systems consist of navigation and search radars, including the Fin Curve, Type 760, and Type 753C systems depending on the variant.