China has officially commissioned its most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, shortly after a ceremonial event attended by Chinese leader Xi Jinping, as reported by state media. The Fujian represents the third aircraft carrier in China’s fleet and features a modern electromagnetic catapult system, which is designed to enhance aircraft launch speeds.
With this development, China claims to possess the world’s largest navy based on the number of vessels. This rapid expansion of naval capabilities has raised concerns regarding the balance of power in the region, particularly in relation to the United States and its allies.
The Fujian is capable of launching three types of aircraft using its flat flight deck and electromagnetic catapults. According to state media, this domestically-produced carrier can accommodate aircraft with greater weaponry and fuel capacities, allowing for longer-range strikes compared to China’s earlier carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong, which were built with Russian assistance.
State media has referred to the Fujian’s commissioning as a significant advancement in the nation’s naval development. Notably, the United States is currently the only other country equipped with aircraft carriers that utilize similar electromagnetic launch technology.
The commissioning ceremony took place in Hainan province, where Xi Jinping toured the ship to assess its operational capabilities. Reports indicate that Xi played a direct role in the decision to implement the electromagnetic catapult system. During the ceremony, he interacted with sailors positioned along the flight deck, who expressed their commitment to the directives of the leadership.
As the implications of the Fujian’s entry into service unfold, questions remain regarding its impact on regional security dynamics and naval strategies in the Asia-Pacific region.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62e0yx39g5o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss