Satellite images of the upgraded Type 22 missile boat have been revealed, showing the removal of the original eight YJ-83 anti-ship missile launchers and initiating a functional transformation!

The modification of the Type 22 missile boat signifies that it is no longer solely responsible for anti-ship operations, but is beginning to undertake more diverse missions. This seemingly small change reflects a broader strategic upgrade of the Chinese Navy.

From the perspective of naval development, when the Type 22 missile boat first appeared, the primary mission of the Chinese Navy was to defend its homeland. At that time, the YJ-83 missiles it carried were the most cost-effective option.

However, things are different now. With the commissioning of large vessels like the Type 055 destroyer and the Fujian aircraft carrier, the Navy is expanding into the far seas to defend more distant waters. As a result, the performance of the YJ-83 missile is becoming somewhat outdated.

Removing the anti-ship missiles from the Type 22, freeing up deck space, transforms it from a platform unsuitable for far-sea operations into a "mobile outpost" capable of flexible shore support, forming a complementary "long-range attack, close-range defense" structure with the far-sea fleet.

From a combat system perspective, the upgraded Type 22 missile boats have become more integrated into the combat system. The newly added decks have proven invaluable, capable of carrying unmanned helicopters to assist in submarine searches and establishing reconnaissance networks. If equipped with laser weapons and air defense systems, they can fill the gaps in close-range defense for larger warships.

Furthermore, the retained HN-900 tactical data link on the boats is particularly powerful, enabling them to maintain constant communication with early warning aircraft and destroyers. This transforms these small 250-ton boats into "scouts" and "defenders" within the combat system, completely moving beyond the era of lone-wolf operations and achieving a remarkable shift towards team-based warfare.

The transformation of the Type 22 missile boats demonstrates the mature leap of the Chinese Navy from "equipment-driven" to "demand-driven" operations. While the far-sea fleet aims for the deep blue sea, these transformed "maritime all-rounders" are building the last line of defense for near-shore operations.