“NAVAL DYNAMICS: CHINA’S CARRIER TRIUMPH AND INDIA’S STRATEGIC MOVES”

Why in the news?

China’s new aircraft carrier trial and its impact on regional naval strategies, especially in comparison to India’s plans.

source:Daily Mail

About China’s Aircraft Carrier Developments

  • China’s third aircraft carrier, Fujian, successfully completed an eight-day maiden sea trial with electromagnetic catapults.
  • Named after Fujian Province, the carrier is an 80,000-tonne supercarrier, making China the second country with this technology.
  • China announced plans for a fourth, likely nuclear-powered, supercarrier shortly after Fujian’s trial.
  • India and neighboring countries closely monitor China’s naval advancements as Beijing expands its maritime influence.
  • The developments spur discussions on enhancing regional naval capabilities, including India’s plans for a second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC-II).
About “China’s High-Tech Aircraft Carrier: The Fujian”:

  • China unveiled its first indigenous aircraft carrier, the Fujian (Type 003), becoming the second-largest carrier operator after the U.S.
  • The Fujian is more advanced than previous Chinese carriers, with an 80,000-tonne displacement and the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS).
  • It features a flat-top flight deck for takeoffs and landings, a departure from ski jump-style ramps.
  • It expands China’s reach into the Indian Ocean, complementing strategic investments in ports like Hambantota (Sri Lanka) and Gwadar (Pakistan).