Type 074-class (Yuhai)

The Type 074 landing ship, designated by NATO as the Yuhai-class, is a landing ship medium developed for the People's Liberation Army Navy. Its development was driven by a requirement to improve upon the Type 079, which utilized a flat-bottom hull that limited operations in adverse weather. To manage costs, the Type 074 was developed as a hybrid design, enlarging the hull of the Type 271 and integrating updated equipment derived from the Type 079.

Constructed at the Wuhu Shipyard, the vessels are designed for tactical beach lodgement and oceanic voyages in moderate sea states. The class is configured to transport main battle tanks, light amphibious tanks, or infantry. The integration of automated systems enabled a reduction in the required crew complement compared to preceding Chinese landing ship designs. Standard onboard systems include navigational radar and anti-aircraft artillery, while certain units are also fitted with multiple rocket launchers.

The class entered service in the mid-1990s. The People's Liberation Army Navy is the primary operator, with units deployed to various regions including the Hong Kong garrison. International operators include the Bangladesh Army and the Sri Lanka Navy. While the majority of the hulls remain in active service, several units have been decommissioned. The design was succeeded by the Type 074A, which utilizes a wave-piercing catamaran hull.