The military and defense expert Henri Kenhmann, who also the website East Pendulum operates posted images on Twitter showing a concept of a Chinese aircraft carrier. According to a report at The War Zone could it be an upcoming model that has only been available as a Type 004 is known. It is speculated to be China’s first domestic nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
The ship in the pictures is different from the Fujian (also as Type 003 known), the currently most advanced aircraft carrier in the People’s Republic. Fujian was first launched in mid-2022 and is with electromagnetic catapults fitted. The ShandongChina’s first home-built aircraft carrier, is engaged in exercises off Taiwan.
Details about the ship are still rare. From the pictures it appears at least that it is with a CATOBARsystem should be equipped. So that jets using one Catapult take off and are slowed down with ropes when landing.
The War Zone indicates that the ship of Gerald R. Ford class resembles the US Navy. It is the most modern aircraft carrier in the US armed forces. It also has elements of the new generation of French aircraft carriers (PA-NG Next Generation Aircraft Carrier).
Concerns about Chinese rearmament
The Chinese upgrade and the growing threats against Taiwan have already set off alarm bells around the world. The world’s most populous country also quarrels and claims with its neighbors over islands and reefs large sea areas with significant fishing grounds, deposits of raw materials and shipping lanes.
