Beijing: China has launched its first next-generation amphibious assault ship, the largest in the world, marking a significant addition to its rapidly growing navy as it aims to rival the military strength of the United States.
The Type 076 amphibious assault ship was launched on Friday during a ceremony at a Shanghai shipyard, the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) announced in a statement. Named Sichuan, after the southwestern province, the independently developed vessel is described as a “key asset” for advancing naval transformation and strengthening long-range operational capabilities.
Already home to the world’s largest navy, China continues to construct carriers and large warships at an impressive pace, expanding its reach and striving to match US military dominance.
Key features of China’s assault ship
With a full-load displacement exceeding 40,000 tons, the Type 076 ranks among the largest amphibious assault ships globally, featuring a twin-island superstructure and a full-length flight deck, according to the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), CNN reported.
A key highlight of the ship is its electromagnetic catapult system, enabling it to carry fixed-wing aircraft alongside helicopters and amphibious equipment typically found on such vessels, the PLAN stated.
This advanced catapult system allows the Type 076 to launch larger and heavier aircraft, increasing their fuel capacity and extending their operational range. As a result, the ship’s overall reach as a combat platform is enhanced, while aircraft can carry more bombs or missiles, boosting their lethality.
Currently, the only other warship equipped with an electromagnetic catapult is the US Navy’s newest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford. China’s newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, which is undergoing sea trials, is also fitted with an electromagnetic catapult system but has yet to be commissioned.
China and US’ naval strength
The US Navy’s amphibious assault ships are equipped with the F-35B, a short-takeoff and vertical landing variant of the stealth fighter jet used by the Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force.
In contrast, the PLA Navy currently lacks a manned equivalent to the F-35B. As a result, it may deploy the same fixed-wing aircraft as those used on the Fujian, CNN report added.
However, a report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) suggests that the Type 076 could potentially serve as a large drone platform.
“If limited to unmanned systems, the Type 076’s air wing will be highly capable. China possesses an advanced and expanding fleet of UAVs, including the GJ-11 stealth combat drone, the WZ-7 reconnaissance drone, and the CASC Rainbow strike UCAV,” the August report stated, citing satellite imagery of the vessel under construction.
Beyond its drone capabilities, the Type 076 is also expected to carry helicopters and amphibious landing craft, with the capacity to deploy over 1,000 marines, according to the CSIS report.
