Earlier this year, something strange happened at China’s Wuchang Shipyard, which is located near Wuhan. According to U.S. officials, a new nuclear-powered attack submarine sank while it was still being prepared for its first journey. This submarine, known as the Type 041 Zhou class, was initially thought to be conventionally powered, but it turned out to carry nuclear fuel when it sank.

A Cover-Up in the Making?

The Wall Street Journal reported that Chinese authorities may have tried to hide this incident. U.S. officials said they haven’t seen any signs that China has checked the water or the surrounding area for radiation. There are concerns that some Chinese workers might have been injured or even killed in the sinking, but it’s unclear if there were any casualties.

A satellite image taken on June 15, 2024, showing a cluster of four crane barges and other unusual activity at Wuchang Shipyard. PHOTOS © 2024 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION

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