A rare look at the lousy life aboard China’s ‘Dragon Palace’ submarines

That may be why China’s sub force recently turned to traditional Chinese medicine, already used by other branches of the Chinese military. “Until recently, Chinese traditional medicine was not present on board PLAN submarines, since there were no designated positions to administer it,” said CMSI.

Sailors in most navies grumble about food. Even US Navy subs, which reputedly have better chow than other ships, have their share of grousing about penal-quality meals. Providing appetizing food for months at a time is a challenge on Chinese subs, whose crews vary from around 60 on a diesel-powered attack boat to around 120 on a ballistic missile submarine.

Though some recent photos suggest an appealing menu, Chinese submarine cuisine still appears to be lacking. “Since submarines prohibit open flame cooking, canned food appears to have been the staple for many years on long-distance deployments,” said CMSI. After “the poor taste of canned food eventually drove some sailors to become anorexic,” more fresh and frozen food was served. But when “the fresh food runs out or electricity conservation is enacted, submarine crews reportedly begin eating standard field rations, such as the navy’s KT-07 nutritional supplement rations. To make up for these conditions, submariners can usually expect a feast to welcome them when returning to shore.”

Ultimately, the question is whether these problems undermine the effectiveness of China’s 61 submarines. Though most are conventional rather than nuclear-powered, they could be among Beijing’s most effective weapons if China were to invade Taiwan.

“Many of the hallmarks of a professional submarine force culture are present aboard PLAN submarines, especially surrounding secrecy, safety, and expertise,” CMSI concluded. “Whether it is procedures for equipment maintenance or nuclear reactor safety, the force appears to demonstrate a high level of professionalism and a desire to uphold the highest standards across the fleet.”

Chinese submariners have their own “dragon palace culture.” This includes activities such as arm wrestling and ping pong contests, as well as other morale-boosters such as shipboard newsletters and poetry readings.

And what submarine force would be complete without its special rituals (that often baffle landlubbers). For example, a ceremony to honor those doing their first long-duration deployments happens when the submarine reaches maximum dive depth, the report said. “Recognized personnel will kiss a buttered hammer and drink seawater drawn from the depths, which is kept within a vial.”

Michael Peck is a defense writer whose work has appeared in Forbes, Defense News, Foreign Policy magazine, and other publications. He holds an MA in political science from Rutgers Univ. Follow him on Twitter and LinkedIn.