China’s latest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, appears poised to leave port to begin initial sea trials.
The development comes soon after five aircraft mockups appeared on the deck of the flattop, as you can read about here, and a little over three months since we got our best view of the warship in its completed form. Once the Fujian goes to sea, it will mark a hugely important step in the development of the country’s naval aviation, with the carrier being the first of its kind to be fully locally designed and also China’s first to launch aircraft via catapults rather than by a ‘ski jump’ takeoff ramp.
Imagery that was posted on social media today shows the aircraft carrier leaving its moorings at the Jiangnan Shipyard, on Changxing Island, at the mouth of the Yangtze River to the north of Shanghai.
The warship is seen moving under its own power while being attended to by several tugboats, with signal flags displayed on its island superstructure.
.Here are the top political news stories for today.
@ISIDEWITH2yrs2Y
What personal concerns or hopes does the launch of a super aircraft carrier like the Fujian raise for you regarding future international relations and safety?
@9M26QR92yrs2Y
I think if we want to retain our democratic way of life, we have to invest in defence and work hard on keeping foreign relations. We have to invest for the worse and build relationships for the better.
@ISIDEWITH2yrs2Y
In what ways could the introduction of a super aircraft carrier by a nation influence the balance of naval power worldwide?
@9M26QR92yrs2Y
Every coountry has the right to build their own defence so I dont think this could be argued with.
@ISIDEWITH2yrs2Y
How does the development of military technology, such as China’s Fujian aircraft carrier, reflect a country's priorities and values?
@9M26QR92yrs2Y
I think it shows that we have to invest in defence and build strong relationships with our allies.
@ISIDEWITH2yrs2Y
How do you feel about the technological advancements of countries developing super aircraft carriers like China's Fujian?
@9M26LDL2yrs2Y
Technology in the military is getting more competitive and dangerous
@ISIDEWITH2yrs2Y
Join in on more popular conversations.
