Chinese Aircraft Carrier ‘Fujian’ Completes Maiden Sea Trials

The Chinese Navy's third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, returned to Shanghai Jiangnan Shipyard at around 3 p.m. on Wednesday after successfully completing its inaugural sea trials.

During the eight-day sea trials, the Fujian tested its propulsion and electrical systems, along with other equipment, achieving the anticipated results.

In the next phase, the aircraft carrier will proceed with follow-up tests as outlined in the established plans.

Distinguished by its innovative features, the Fujian is China's first aircraft carrier equipped with electromagnetic catapults, a departure from earlier carriers which utilized ski jump ramps. China's previous two carriers, the Liaoning and the Shandong, each with a displacement of approximately 60,000 tons, relied on ski jump ramps for assisting aircraft takeoffs. In contrast, the Fujian boasts a displacement exceeding 80,000 tons. Its larger size enables increased aircraft capacity, while the electromagnetic catapults facilitate more efficient aircraft launches, accommodating heavier and more advanced aircraft types.

Construction of the Fujian commenced at Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai in June 2022.

The sea trials phase, which could extend over a year or more, will encompass comprehensive testing to affirm the carrier's operational readiness.