World’s First Electromagnetic Catapult-Equipped Amphibious Assault Ship Starts Maiden Sea Trial in China

China’s first electromagnetic catapult-equipped Type 076 amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan (Hull 51), departed the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai at about 9 a.m. on Friday for its maiden sea trial.

The Navy said the trials will focus on verifying the reliability and stability of the ship’s power, electrical and other core systems. The vessel has completed mooring tests, equipment installation and commissioning since its launch in December 2024, and now meets the technical conditions required for sea trials.

The Sichuan has a full-load displacement of more than 40,000 tonnes and features a dual-island superstructure and a full-length flight deck. The ship incorporates electromagnetic catapult and arrestor technologies, enabling operations involving fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and amphibious equipment.

Chinese state media reported that the Type 076 is the world’s first amphibious assault ship equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system. It is the country’s second naval vessel to adopt the technology after the aircraft carrier Fujian, which was commissioned earlier this month.

The first phase of sea trials will assess overall sailing performance and the power system’s ability to support both propulsion and the energy demands of the electromagnetic catapult. Follow-on tests are expected to verify aviation systems, deck operations and unmanned aircraft support.

The Type 076 design allows the ship to support roles associated with amphibious missions and light aircraft carrier functions. Chinese media noted that the vessel is expected to operate fixed-wing aircraft, including stealth-capable naval fighters, as well as several classes of unmanned aerial vehicles displayed during the V-Day parade in Beijing in September.

Publications in China said the construction pace of the Sichuan reflects growing industrial capacity in large warship production and may support earlier induction once trials are completed.