China has launched an unknown ship into the sea. Its design resembles that of an aircraft carrier.
This information is reported by RBK-Ukraine citing The War Zone.
According to the publication, the Chinese vessel bears various commercial rather than military markings. Moreover, it does not resemble any other established class of ships in the Chinese Navy. It is likely that this could be the first of its kind, allegedly a civilian research vessel.
However, journalists have noted an interesting detail in the ship's design – three superstructures, which are characteristic of aircraft carriers. Typically, such vessels have one or two of these "islands," but the new ship has three. Additionally, the third structure is equipped with smokestacks – an unusual feature. The ship also displays a layout for a flight and hangar deck, further indicating it is an aircraft carrier.
민용판075试航 pic.twitter.com/reQIGlxhNN — DS北风(风哥) (@WenJian0922) November 26, 2024
Currently, the names and specifications of the new Chinese ship remain unknown. There is also no information regarding its actual functionality and purpose.
According to media reports, the vessel was launched around September-October of this year. Photos show an emblem indicating its affiliation with CSSC (China State Shipbuilding Corporation – ed.). This ship could serve as a training, testing, or demonstration platform.
Previously, RBK-Ukraine reported that for the first time in history, the Chinese army sent all its aircraft carriers to sea simultaneously. This allows for insight into how the PRC might deploy its vessels in the event of, say, an attack on Taiwan.