Photo Credit: Chinese State Broadcaster
China's latest and most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, embarked on its inaugural sea trials, departing from Shanghai and marking a significant stride toward integrating into the world's leading naval forces. The trials, situated in the East China Sea near the Jiangnan Shipyard where the carrier was constructed, primarily aim to assess the reliability and stability of its propulsion and electrical systems.
Launched in 2022, the Fujian has undergone mooring trials, outfitting work, and equipment adjustments in preparation for these sea trials. With an impressive displacement of 80,000 metric tons, it surpasses China's existing carriers, theShandong and Liaoning, and is second only to the United States Navy's larger carriers.
A notable feature of Fujian is its electromagnetic catapult system, enabling it to launch larger aircraft carrying heavier munitions over greater distances compared to its predecessors. This capability enhances the carrier's combat range, positioning China's navy for expanded "blue water" operations.
Despite the advancements, the Fujian still trails behind the technological prowess of US carriers, notably the USS Gerald R. Ford, equipped with a similar electromagnetic catapult system. The US carriers maintain advantages in power and size, being nuclear-
powered and larger in displacement, enabling longer deployments and accommodating more aircraft.
The ongoing sea trials, expected to last several days, prioritize testing hull integrity, propulsion, and engineering systems. Analysts anticipate the trials to extend over a year before the Fujian's commissioning, following a similar timeline as previous Chinese
carriers.
Once operational, the Fujian will symbolize China's burgeoning naval capabilities, reflected in its rapidly expanding fleet, which already surpasses 340 warships. Plans for a fourth carrier are underway, with speculation about potential nuclear propulsion, further indicating China's ambition to enhance its maritime influence.
Meanwhile, the US Navy continues its carrier expansion with three Ford-class carriers under construction, underscoring the ongoing naval competition between the two global powers.
