Once again, the Fujian aircraft carrier of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) of China is making headlines. New images shared on the social network Weibo indicate that the new vessel from the Asian giant has begun its third sea trial.
Following extensive tests in port, including evaluations of its propulsion systems and power generation, which bring to life its various sensors and equipment, the Fujian has officially commenced its navigation trials. According to Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) reports, the aircraft carrier conducted its first sea trial in May, with a second trial concluding in mid-June amidst tensions involving Taiwan.
Throughout the past month, various signs suggested that the aircraft carrier was preparing for sea trials. One such indicator was the presence of a Chinese Navy Type 901 logistics vessel, used for replenishing fuel and other supplies at sea.
The integration of a new aircraft carrier is a rigorous and complex task, requiring thorough testing of its integrated systems and the training of crews who will operate both the vessel and the aircraft forming its Carrier Air Wing (CVW). For the PLAN, this is particularly significant as the Fujian represents China’s first domestically designed aircraft carrier, in contrast to the Liaoning and Shandong carriers, which are based on Russian/Soviet designs.
Moreover, it’s important to note the introduction of new technologies on Chinese military vessels, such as the new electromagnetic catapults, similar to the EMALS used on the U.S Navy’s Gerald Ford-class carriers. Previously, Chinese carriers used a ski jump ramp system, limiting the payload their aircraft could carry during operations.
While the images did not provide detailed insights, the successive sea trials suggest progress in evaluating the Fujian’s propulsion and power generation systems, crucial for tactical navigation requiring full power for maneuvers like evasion against potential submarine threats.
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