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China Shows Strength: Fujian, Country’s Most Advanced 80,000-Ton Aircraft Carrier, Ready to Debut

Published on 24/08/2025 at 18:57
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Fujian Aircraft Carrier, 80,000 Tons, Could Debut in September on the Anniversary of China’s Victory over Japan, Symbolizing Military Advancement and Political Message.

China’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, may enter service as early as next month, according to state media. A report aired by China Central Television (CCTV) on Saturday (August 23) highlighted that the official commissioning may coincide with the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan, celebrated on September 3.

The South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that the television material began with images of the Jiangnan shipyard in Shanghai, where the Fujian was built and launched. Shortly after, the footage showed the ship at sea, preparing to take on full operational roles.

Charged with Historical Symbolism

During the report, the narrator linked the Fujian to a past of conflicts. He stated: “In August 2025, the first Chinese aircraft carrier equipped with a catapult, designed and built entirely in the country, is preparing for official commissioning. Eighty-eight years ago, the flagship Izumo of the Imperial Japanese Navy sailed in the same waters.”

The tone used made the symbolism of the date clear. The idea presented was one of “revenge” or historical justice against Japanese aggression. Once in service, China will be the only country besides the United States to operate an aircraft carrier with an electromagnetic catapult system.

Remembrance of the Past of Wars

Naval historian Chen Yue reinforced the link with martial memory. According to him, “the guns of the armored cruiser Izumo were pointed directly at the urban districts of Shanghai.” Chen also recalled that the funding for that Japanese ship came from reparations obtained in the Treaty of Shimonoseki.

The mention emphasized that the Izumo became a symbol of Japanese aggression, in contrast to the Fujian, now viewed as a technological and military response.

Sea Trials Completed

Anticipation for the commissioning of the Fujian has grown in recent weeks, as the ship has completed a series of takeoff tests. Footage of the evaluations was broadcast on the 98th anniversary of the formation of the People’s Liberation Army of China.

The Fujian, at 80,000 tons, is the first Chinese aircraft carrier completely produced domestically. It is distinguished by using an electromagnetic catapult instead of traditional ramps. This system enhances the ship’s power because it allows launching heavier aircraft and at a greater frequency.

Enhanced Power

Built to operate stealth fighters and electronic warfare jets, the Fujian represents a significant leap for the Chinese navy. It left the shipyard for the first time in June 2022 and has since undergone 117 days of trials in eight test voyages.

In comparison, the other two Chinese aircraft carriers, Liaoning and Shandong, had less rigorous testing. This demonstrates the greater complexity and superior capability of the new ship.

Display of Strength at the Parade

The likely commissioning of the Fujian is expected to occur amid national celebrations, alongside tanks, missiles, and a military band with a thousand members. This presentation was designed not only as an act of celebration but also as a message to strategic rivals.

“The equipment for the parade was not made for display, but for combat,” stated a tank commander in an interview with CCTV. According to him, if there is an order, the troops can go from the parade directly to the battlefield.

Pride and Political Message

The commissioning of the Fujian reinforces military pride Chinese and narrows the gap with the U.S. Navy. Additionally, the date chosen for the debut connects technological advancement to a memory of national suffering.

Thus, the Fujian is not just a modern warship. It also symbolizes China’s transformation from being a target of naval aggression to becoming a power capable of operating some of the most advanced aircraft carriers in the world.

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Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Journalist specializing in a wide variety of topics, such as cars, technology, politics, naval industry, geopolitics, renewable energy, and economics. Active since 2015, with prominent publications on major news portals. My background in Information Technology Management from Faculdade de Petrolina (Facape) adds a unique technical perspective to my analyses and reports. With over 10,000 articles published in renowned outlets, I always aim to provide detailed information and relevant insights for the reader.

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