Get ready for some serious ocean vibes: China's first aircraft carrier with electromagnetic catapults, the Fujian, is all set to make regular appearances on the high seas 🌊🚢. Senior Captain Leng Guowei explained that while Sanya military port in southern China's Hainan island is its 'home port', the vast ocean is the vessel's real playground.
Commissioned just this week at Sanya naval base, the Fujian stands as the biggest warship in China's fleet, proudly named after Fujian Province and launched in June 2022. What's cool? It's fully homegrown—from design to build, this giga-ship is purely a Chinese feat 🇨🇳💪.
As the Fujian was under construction, crews were busy testing all the supporting tech: carrier-based fighters like the J-35, J-15T, J-15D, the KongJing-600 early warning aircraft, and Z-20 helicopters. It's like a tech startup's dream team for the skies! And experts say the jet squadron will be fully operational soon.
Many of the Fujian's onboard systems—think next-gen radars and catapults—are going into action for the first time. Post-commissioning, expect an intense round of sea trials to fine-tune every gadget and gear 🔧⚙️.
Captain Leng stressed that China's push for stronger naval tech isn't targeted at anyone in particular. Instead, it's about protecting national sovereignty, security, and development interests 🌏🤝.
With hull number 18, the Fujian joins China's trio of active carriers, and future development plans will be shaped by real defense needs. So, keep an eye on this high-tech leviathan as it carves its path across the waves!
Reference(s):
Fujian aircraft carrier to make regular appearances on high seas
cgtn.com
