BANGKOK — China has recently inaugurated a new amphibious assault vessel named the Sichuan, which debuted on Friday. This ship is notable for its capability to launch fighter jets and is intended to bolster the naval forces’ operational effectiveness in distant marine territories.
The Sichuan marks the first entry in the 076 ship class and is the largest of its kind developed by China, with a displacement of 40,000 tons. It features an advanced electromagnetic catapult system, which enables fighter jets to take off directly from its deck, as reported by the official state news service Xinhua.
This amphibious assault ship is designed not only to deploy ground troops using landing crafts but also to provide aerial support during operations. It incorporates innovative “arrestor technology,” facilitating the landing of aircraft on its deck.
China first introduced amphibious assault ships, classified as type 075, back in 2019. Over the past decade, the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has been pursuing modernization initiatives aimed at expanding its operational capabilities beyond just the waters surrounding the Chinese mainland. The first occurrence of fighter jets being launched using the new electromagnetic technology was observed on China’s indigenous aircraft carrier, the Fujian, which was unveiled two years prior.
A military analyst, Song Zhongping, referred to the Sichuan as a “light aircraft carrier” when discussing its capabilities in an interview with the Global Times.
The ship is set to undergo a series of evaluations, including extensive sea trials, to assess its performance. China currently boasts the world’s largest naval fleet and is actively engaged in efforts to upgrade its armada. Recent investigations suggest that the country is also working on plans for a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, which would enhance its ability to operate far from shore without the necessity of a refueling base.
In contrast, the United States maintains a fleet of 11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, allowing for the continuous deployment of multiple strike groups around the globe, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region.
