China's cutting-edge Fujian aircraft carrier begins maiden sea trials

China’s third and most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, commenced its inaugural sea trials Wednesday, as reported by state-controlled media.

The vessel, boasting next-generation launch tracks capable of catapulting a broader spectrum of aircraft, departed from the Shanghai Jiangnan Shipyard at approximately 8 am, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.

Xinhua reported that the sea trials will primarily evaluate the reliability and stability of the aircraft carrier’s propulsion and electrical systems.

It noted that since its launch in June 2022, the Fujian has completed mooring trials, outfitting tasks, and equipment adjustments, meeting the necessary technical prerequisites for conducting the trials.

China has hailed the Fujian as a pivotal component of its military arsenal, bringing Beijing closer to its ambition of projecting its military prowess globally, in line with President Xi Jinping’s vision of establishing a ‘world-class military’ by mid-century.

Compared to its predecessors, the Shandong, commissioned in 2019, and the Liaoning, purchased from Ukraine in 1998 and domestically refurbished, the Fujian is larger and more technologically sophisticated. Its utilisation of the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, a Chinese rendition known for smoother acceleration and reduced stress on airframes, underscores China’s technological advancements.

The Chinese system, experts argue, promises greater energy efficiency and durability, accommodating a wider array of aircraft for launch. Upon commissioning, it will join the ranks of the US Navy’s Ford-class nuclear-powered carriers as the only other vessels equipped with such technology.

Chinese state media asserts that the Fujian, upon completion, will exceed 80,000 metric tons in displacement, surpassing any warship ever built in Asia and becoming the world’s largest non-American aircraft carrier.

By comparison, the Shandong and Liaoning boast displacements of approximately 66,000 metric tons and 60,000 metric tons, respectively, employing the ski jump method for fixed-wing aircraft launch, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

The Liaoning underwent ten sea trials before entering service, while the Shandong completed nine before formal commissioning.

With inputs from Agencies