China has unveiled its third aircraft carrier, named Fujian, in a significant technological advancement compared to its predecessors in the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN).

Unlike the Liaoning and Shandong carriers, commissioned in 2012 and 2019 respectively, the Fujian boasts a larger size and is equipped with multiple catapults rather than a ski jump ramp. This upgrade enables the Fujian to accommodate a more extensive and capable fleet of shipborne aircraft.

China's third aircraft carrier, named Fujian, signals a significant leap in technology compared to its predecessors. Expected to bolster China's naval capabilities, the carrier raises questions about the nation's future carrier ambitions.

According to Collin Koh, a Senior Fellow, China aims to construct up to six carriers to establish proficiency in carrier operations. Fujian's construction began in March 2017 and launched on 17 June 2022, with its maiden voyage commencing in May 2023. The sea trials primarily tested the carrier's propulsion and electrical systems.

Fujian completed mooring trials, outfitting, and equipment adjustments in the past two years. Catapult tests were conducted in November 2023 to meet technical requirements for sea trials. The carrier's maiden voyage concluded successfully, testing propulsion, electrical systems, and other equipment. Follow-up tests are planned for the next stage.

China's third carrier, Fujian, is undergoing a series of planned sea trials following its maiden voyage. Similar to the first carrier Liaoning, which underwent ten sea trials, and the second carrier Shandong, which underwent nine, it is expected that Fujian will require multiple seagoing trials before entering service.

A significant advancement in Fujian is the installation of an electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS), a technology previously only featured on the US Navy's newest Gerald R Ford class carriers. By adopting EMALS, China has moved away from the traditional Soviet-style ski jump ramp and steam-powered catapults used by the US Navy.

According to the Pentagon's annual report on China's military, EMALS will enhance Fujian's capabilities by supporting additional fighter aircraft and fixed-wing early warning aircraft, and enabling more rapid flight operations, thereby extending the reach and effectiveness of its carrier-based strike aircraft.

Fujian, presumed to have a displacement of over 80,000 tonnes, could join the PLAN around 2026, based on the timeline of previous carriers. However, due to new equipment and technologies like its complex catapult, this process might take longer.

Analysts estimate Fujian to be around 316m long with a flight deck width of approximately 72m, similar in size to the US Navy's Kitty Hawk-class carriers. It is expected to require at least 2,000 sailors and 1,000 aircrews for operation.

New carrier features revealed during sea trials: two aircraft elevators, an EMALS system with three catapults, integrated radars, and sensors on island superstructure, close-in weapon systems, and short-range air defence missiles for last-ditch defence.

Image source: ANI