Peoples Republic of China unveils large flying boat

This is an article that purportedly reveals the real purpose of the flying boat.


http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/naval/naval-aviation/2015/03/28/china-seaplane-islands-scs-claims-spratley-reef/70542218/

I understand that jet seaplanes require certain design features but this looks like a direct knockoff of the Russian seaplanes.

It is interesting to see the market for large seaplanes returning after a long time.
I guess the age of the "China Clipper" are coming back.