China has begun construction of its fourth aircraft carrier, known as the Type 004.
Satellite images of the dry dock at the Dalian shipyard were published by X user alfred_shum4973.
The Type 004 will be China’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, enabling it to carry out long-term global operations without the need for refueling.
The ship is expected to have a displacement of 110,000-120,000 tons, making it the largest warship ever built in Asia.
The aircraft carrier will be able to carry more than 90 fixed-wing aircraft, including J-15T and J-35 fighters, KJ-600 early warning aircraft, anti-submarine warfare aircraft and attack drones.
The Type 004 will be equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system that will allow launching heavy aircraft with a full combat load.
This will significantly expand combat capabilities compared to previous Chinese aircraft carriers that used a springboard.
The carrier’s escort will include Type 055A/B destroyers, Type 054B frigates, and Type 095 nuclear-powered submarines.
The Type 004 will become a center for joint operations of the Chinese Navy with enhanced command and control capabilities and integrated air defense systems that can surpass the US Aegis system.
According to satellite images, the keel laying ceremony could take place in mid-2025.
In September, it was also reported that China is testing the world’s largest underwater drones, the size of a conventional submarine.
It is estimated that their length exceeds 40 meters, making even the US Navy’s ultra-large unmanned underwater vehicle (XLUUV) look like a toy.
