China unveils world’s largest amphibious warship

China has recently unveiled its latest addition to its naval fleet, the Sichuan, a type 076 new-generation amphibious assault ship. This massive warship, with a full load displacement of 40,000 tons, is now the largest amphibious assault ship in the world. Featuring a dual-island superstructure and a full-length flight deck, the Sichuan marks a significant milestone in China’s naval capabilities.

The launch and naming ceremony of the Sichuan took place on Friday, with the ship set to play a pivotal role in transforming and enhancing the combat capabilities of the Chinese navy in far seas. The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) highlighted that the Sichuan is capable of launching fighter jets and unmanned drones from an electromagnetic catapult, as well as carrying ground troops in landing craft with air support.

Named after southwest China’s Sichuan Province, the Sichuan also boasts “arrester technology” that will enable fighter jets to land on its deck, similar to an aircraft carrier. This advanced feature showcases China’s commitment to modernizing its naval forces for global operations. The Sichuan joins the type 075 class warship called the Hainan, launched in 2019, as part of China’s ongoing efforts to upgrade its naval fleet.

In addition to the Sichuan, Chinese researchers are reportedly working on designing a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, which would allow China to deploy its ships in distant waters without the need for refueling bases. This development indicates China’s ambition to expand its naval presence globally.

The United States, with 11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers deployed strategically worldwide, including in the Asia-Pacific region, closely monitors China’s naval advancements. As China continues to enhance its naval capabilities, the global balance of power in the maritime domain may undergo significant shifts.

The Sichuan will now undergo further sea trials to test its capabilities before it becomes fully operational. With China’s relentless pursuit of modernizing its naval fleet, the world’s largest navy is poised to become even more formidable in the years to come.