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The Chinese Aircraft Carrier Fujian, First in the Fleet Equipped with Electromagnetic Catapults, Advances in Sea Trials and Prepares to Reinforce the People’s Liberation Army Navy.
The Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian (CV-18) has once again drawn attention by conducting a new round of sea trials in the Yangtze River Estuary. The movements suggest that the incorporation of the aircraft carrier into the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) may be closer than previously thought.
With 48 hours’ notice, the China Maritime Safety Administration imposed restrictions on naval traffic in the area. The measure blocked the main access route to the estuary during specific hours, between 10:30 AM and 8 PM, with particular attention to the afternoon period. The control specifically included the stretch connecting buoy 302 to the Changxing Island shipyard, where the Fujian is based.
Series of Tests Brings the Ship Closer to Commissioning
Since its debut at sea, the Fujian has completed eight navigation tests, a figure similar to that of the other Chinese aircraft carriers, Liaoning and Shandong, before their respective incorporations. The last test occurred in June. Since then, the ship has been inactive for three months, raising speculations about final adjustments before its official debut.
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A notable point in this new phase was the use of a Type 637 military tanker for refueling. Until now, civilian vessels had performed this function. Analysts interpreted this change as an indication that the vessel is at an advanced stage of preparation for real operations.
A Technological Milestone for the Chinese Navy
The Fujian is the first Chinese aircraft carrier equipped with electromagnetic catapults, a feature that allows for launching aircraft with greater efficiency and flexibility. This innovation is seen as a game changer for the PLA Navy, placing China at a new technological level in the naval sector.
Nevertheless, experts emphasize that the country remains far from American supremacy. Currently, the United States has 11 aircraft carriers in active service, whereas China, with the introduction of the Fujian, will operate three units.
The imminent entry into operation of the Fujian is viewed by international analysts as a crucial move for the balance of power in the Pacific. The ship is expected to play a central role in China’s strategy for power projection and the consolidation of its navy as one of the most influential in the world.
For Beijing, the Fujian is not just another aircraft carrier. It represents the ambition to create a world-class navy and increase Chinese influence in strategic regions. As such, the aircraft carrier is already solidifying its status as a symbol of the country’s military and technological rise on the global stage.
Porta aviões hoje em dia são alvos fáceis, serão afundados com relativa simplicidade, já que os submarinos evoluíram demais.