China has launched its first next-generation amphibious assault ship as its navy bolsters its capabilities amid rising territorial tensions.
this Type 076 shipnamed SichuanThe ship entered the water during a ceremony in Shanghai on Friday, according to the official Xinhua News Agency. It was independently developed and will enhance China’s far-sea combat capabilities, the report said.
The ship, which the Center for Strategic and International Studies calls the world’s largest amphibious assault ship, brings more air power to the Chinese navy at a time when China faces hot topics. South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. It will undergo testing and sea trials after launch, Xinhua News Agency reported.
The Sichuan is an upgraded version of the three Type 075 ships currently owned by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army. It is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, also present on the latest Fujian aircraft carrier, allowing it to carry fixed-wing aircraft and expand the use of drones, which are increasingly seen as vital in modern warfare.
The launch of the Sichuan ship shows that China’s military has made technological advances despite persistent corruption in the People’s Liberation Army, as evidenced by the anti-corruption campaign sweeping the country. People’s Liberation Army Since last summer.
The push has expanded within the military after initially focusing on its equipment procurement arm and secretive rocket force. A naval commander in the southern theater was purged this week over alleged violations of law and discipline, which usually means corruption, following the dismissal of his predecessor a year ago.
