Core Viewpoint - The development of China's third aircraft carrier, Fujian, signifies a major advancement in the modernization of the Chinese Navy, reflecting the nation's commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities and safeguarding national interests [1]. Group 1: Aircraft Carrier Development - The Fujian aircraft carrier is progressing steadily in its sea trial work, indicating that its commissioning date is approaching [1]. - The transition from the initial development phase to the current capabilities, including the introduction of the electromagnetic catapult system, marks a significant leap in the Chinese Navy's aircraft carrier construction [1]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - The establishment of a powerful and modernized navy is seen as a long-held aspiration of the Chinese nation, aimed at ensuring national sovereignty, security, and developmental interests [1]. - The Chinese military positions itself as a steadfast force for world peace, suggesting that the growth of its naval capabilities will enhance its ability to deter conflicts and maintain regional stability [1].

Core Viewpoint - The launch of China's third aircraft carrier, Fujian, marks a significant advancement in the country's naval capabilities, transitioning to a new era of aircraft carriers with advanced technologies such as electromagnetic catapults [1][8]. Group 1: Aircraft Carrier Development - The Fujian aircraft carrier, with a full displacement of over 80,000 tons, is China's first domestically designed and built catapult aircraft carrier [1][4]. - Fujian features a flat-deck design and is equipped with electromagnetic catapults and arrestor wires, making it the world's first conventionally powered aircraft carrier to utilize electromagnetic launch technology [4][5]. - Compared to conventional carriers, the catapult launch system allows for aircraft to take off with full fuel and munitions, significantly enhancing combat capabilities [5]. Group 2: Testing and Operational Milestones - The Fujian carrier is currently undergoing sea trials as part of its construction process, with the latest test occurring during the Dragon Boat Festival [4]. - Key milestones include the planned mooring tests in September 2022 and the first sea trial scheduled for May 1, 2024, lasting eight days to test various systems [8]. - The carrier's electromagnetic launch system was first publicly demonstrated in September 2024, showcasing its operational readiness [8]. Group 3: Historical Context of Chinese Aircraft Carriers - The development of the Chinese navy's aircraft carrier fleet began with the Liaoning, which was officially delivered on September 25, 2012, marking the start of China's aircraft carrier era [10]. - The Shandong, China's first fully domestically designed and built aircraft carrier, was delivered on December 17, 2019, further solidifying the country's capabilities [11]. - The transition from modified carriers to fully indigenous designs and the shift from ski-jump to electromagnetic launch systems represent significant advancements in China's naval strategy [13].