Ancient Chinese Naval Warfare: Junks and Maritime Power

Ancient Chinese naval warfare was among the most sophisticated in the pre-modern world. From the wars of the Warring States period to the Ming Dynasty, Chinese naval forces developed technologies, tactics, and strategies that dominated the waters of East and Southeast Asia for centuries.

Early Naval Warfare

Chinese naval warfare dates to the Warring States period, when states on the Yangtze and Pearl rivers built fleets of war junks. By the Han Dynasty, Chinese fleets were operating in the South China Sea. The Three Kingdoms period saw famous naval battles between Wu, Shu, and Wei.

Ming Treasure Ships

The Ming Dynasty treasure ships (宝船) of Admiral Zheng He were among the largest vessels in the pre-modern world. These massive junks — reportedly over 100 meters long — were armed with cannons and carried armies of over 27,000 men. Though China's naval dominance ended with the Ming seafaring bans (海禁), Chinese naval technology remained advanced.