China launched its first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, Sichuan, on December 27 at the Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai.
The Sichuan has a full-load displacement of over 40,000 tons, making it one of the largest amphibious assault ships in the world. It measures approximately 260 meters long with a 50-meter-wide flight deck. Equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, the ship can launch fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and drones, allowing it to provide air support for ground troops during amphibious operations. It can also deploy over 1,000 marines via landing craft.
WATCH: China’s first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan, is launched, featuring groundbreaking electromagnetic catapult and arresting technology. (Video: CCTV) pic.twitter.com/t0p79wbJso
— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) December 27, 2024
The electromagnetic catapult technology, previously used only by the U.S. Navy’s Gerald R. Ford-class carriers, enables the launch of heavier aircraft with greater fuel and weapon capacity, increasing their range. The Sichuan is also reportedly fitted with arrester technology to allow safe aircraft landings.
The PLAN, already the world’s largest navy by fleet size, has been rapidly developing new carriers and large warships. The Type 076 builds on the earlier Type 075 ships, adding features like drone compatibility and enhanced flight deck capabilities.
Construction of the Sichuan began in late 2022 and was completed in just over a year. It will now undergo sea trials and additional testing to ensure its readiness for deployment.
