Images have emerged of a Chinese containership fitted with missile launch systems and sensors, reports Paris-based Naval News.

Satellite images confirmed the ship's presence in Shanghai. The vessel, based on a civilian carrier, was equipped with at least 48 containerized vertical launch cells, a Type-1130 close-in weapons system and multiple decoy launchers.

Sensors were mounted in containers near the bridge, including a Type-344 fire control radar normally seen on destroyers. An additional flat-faced AESA array was also visible, likely for air search or missile guidance.

The types of missiles remain unclear, but analysts said the launch cells could fire CJ-10 land attack cruise missiles, YJ-18 anti-ship and land attack missiles, and possibly YJ-21 ballistic missiles. Surface-to-air capability may also be possible using HHQ-9 systems.

Containerized missile systems have proliferated globally in recent years. Russia developed the Club-K system using Kalibr cruise missiles, while the US has tested Lockheed's MK-70 vertical launch system and containerized HIMARS pods.

Naval experts said the Chinese vessel highlights growing interest in containerized weapons, which offer flexibility and concealment compared with traditional warship platforms