CCTV reported that on December 27, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched the Type 076 Sichuan at the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai.
With a groundbreaking design and the ability to carry both unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and fighter jets, the Type 076 is expected to become the world's first "UAV aircraft carrier".
The Type 076 Sichuan, with the number 51, is equipped with advanced electromagnetic catapult technology - similar to the Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier. This system helps the aircraft take off faster and more effectively, while allowing the aircraft to carry modern combat vehicles such as UAVs, helicopters and fighter jets.
The ship had a water expansion capacity of over 40,000 tons, a total expansion of the deck and two command islands. According to military analyst Du Wenlong, the integration of attack and reconnaissance UAVs will turn Type 076 into a "UAV aircraft carrier", significantly expanding the range and combat effectiveness.
Unlike traditional attack landing ships that only carry helicopters and landing vehicles, the Type 076 can attack in multiple dimensions: Combining UAVs, manned aircraft, helicopters and landing vehicles, creating advantages in the air, water and land.
The ship can enhance its group combat capabilities: When operating with the Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier or the Type 075 landing ship, the Type 076 will help create a powerful attack formation.
Analyst Song Zhongping commented that with its superior carrying and attack capabilities, the Type 076 is on par with light aircraft carrier, providing advantages far beyond conventional landing ships.
According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the Type 076 is the world's largest attack aircraft carrier, based on satellite images of the aircraft carrier during its construction.
In the coming time, the Type 076 will continue to undergo testing and operation, with the goal of officially putting it into service to enhance the combat power of the Chinese army.
