China Expands Its Naval Capabilities
China is rapidly increasing its naval strength to rival the United States. For this, China has launched a new and advanced warship, Fujian (Type-003). Chinese President Xi Jinping himself has launched the aircraft carrier that was developed by China using totally local technology.
Launching Ceremony Details
According to Chinese state media, a launch ceremony was held on Wednesday at a military port on Hainan Island. At the ceremony, President Xi Jinping himself inspected the Fujian warship. The Fujian is China's third aircraft carrier and represents a major technological advance in the country's naval program.
Specifications of the Fujian:
The Fujian is fitted with an advanced electromagnetic aircraft launch system, known as the EMALS, which makes the taking off of aircraft from the deck of the carrier more efficient. Measuring 316 meters in length, this warship displaces about 80,000 tons and can carry up to 50 aircraft at one time, reflecting China's increasing capability for large-scale naval operations.
Comparison with U.S. Technology
The system installed on the Fujian is similar to those on the U.S. Navy's Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers-a sign of China's progress in adopting advanced technology hitherto unique to the United States.
Strategic Importance and Future Plans
President Xi Jinping hailed Fujian as a milestone in the modernization of China's armed forces. He said this warship would be a strategic asset for Beijing and raise China's international stature. Meanwhile, there are reports that another aircraft carrier, named Type-004, has been under construction in China. This coming warship is believed to have both the EMALS technology and nuclear propulsion.
