China's most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has entered service days after a grand commissioning ceremony overseen by Chinese leader Xi Jinping, state media reported.
The Fujian, the country’s third warship, is equipped with electromagnetic catapults that facilitate quicker plane launches. This significant advancement marks a crucial step forward for Beijing, which holds the title of having the world's largest navy in sheer number of vessels.
Under Xi's leadership, China's navy has been growing rapidly, putting pressure on both the United States and its allies to respond accordingly.
According to state media, the Fujian can launch three types of aircraft due to its electromagnetic catapult and flat flight deck. The domestically-manufactured vessel supports heavier weaponry and fuel, allowing for attacks on enemy targets from expanded ranges, thereby outmatching China's initial two carriers, the Liaoning and the Shandong.
State media hailed the Fujian as a ‘major milestone’ in naval advancement. The United States remains China's sole competitor in possessing an aircraft carrier with an identical catapult system.
The commissioning ceremony, held in southern Hainan province, featured Xi touring the ship's deck while receiving detailed insights regarding its operational capabilities. Notably, it was reported that Xi personally advocated for the embrace of electromagnetic catapult technology.
Sailors lined the flight deck during the event, saluting while chanting, 'Follow the party's command, fight to win, and uphold fine conduct!'
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