China Aircraft Carriers: Analysis & Implications
- China's pursuit of naval power through aircraft carriers spans nearly a century,marked by early proposals,setbacks,and recent advancements. The nation's commitment to developing a formidable navy has resulted in...
- As early as 1928, Chen Shaokuan, then Chief of Navy, envisioned a strong Chinese navy bolstered by aircraft carriers. However, internal strife and economic constraints prevented the realization...
- Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, focus shifted to near-shore defense due to international pressures and limited resources.
China’s aircraft carrier program has evolved over a century, transforming from early ambitions to a rapidly growing naval force. Discover how internal conflicts and economic hurdles shaped the initial vision of naval leaders, like Chen Shaokuan, and how China’s determination ultimately led to commissioning vessels such as the Liaoning and shandong. The Fujian, slated for commission around 2026, signals a leap forward with advanced technology and its electromagnetic catapult system. Learn how News Directory 3 follows the trajectory of China’s ambition to operate at least six aircraft carriers by the mid-2030s, as Chinese naval power expands. What does the future hold for China’s naval dominance?
China Steadily Advances Aircraft Carrier Program,Bolstering Naval capabilities
Updated June 03,2025
China’s pursuit of naval power through aircraft carriers spans nearly a century,marked by early proposals,setbacks,and recent advancements. The nation’s commitment to developing a formidable navy has resulted in the commissioning of two aircraft carriers, with plans for further expansion.
As early as 1928, Chen Shaokuan, then Chief of Navy, envisioned a strong Chinese navy bolstered by aircraft carriers. However, internal strife and economic constraints prevented the realization of this ambition. The Second sino-Japanese War underscored the importance of naval aviation, solidifying China’s determination to develop its own aircraft carrier capabilities.
Following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, focus shifted to near-shore defense due to international pressures and limited resources. Despite this, naval leaders recognized the strategic value of aircraft carriers. General Xiao Jinguang, the first commander of the PLA Navy, emphasized the necessity of air superiority for accomplished operations in distant seas.
In the 1970s, General Liu Huaqing proposed the construction of an aircraft carrier, leading to the ‘Project 707’ initiative. However, this project was ultimately abandoned due to funding shortages. Subsequent attempts to acquire or build aircraft carriers faced various obstacles, including international sanctions and financial limitations.
A turning point came with the acquisition of the unfinished Soviet aircraft carrier Varyag. Purchased by a Hong Kong businessman, Xu Zengping, for $20 million, the Varyag underwent extensive modifications and was eventually commissioned as the liaoning in 2012. This marked a important milestone in China’s aircraft carrier ambitions.
Increased defense spending in the 2000s facilitated the development of indigenous aircraft carriers. The Shandong,China’s first domestically built carrier,entered service in 2019. The Type 003 Fujian, launched in 2022 and expected to be commissioned in 2026, incorporates advanced technologies such as an electromagnetic catapult system.
The Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian each possess unique characteristics. The Liaoning serves primarily as a training platform, while the Shandong expands upon its design with increased aircraft capacity. The Fujian represents a leap forward with its catapult launch system,enhancing its operational capabilities.
What’s next
China aims to have at least six aircraft carriers in operation by the mid-2030s,further solidifying its naval presence and expanding its ability to project power in the region and beyond. This ambitious goal underscores China’s commitment to becoming a leading maritime power.