CCTV reported that on December 27, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched the Type 076 Sichuan ship at the Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai.
With its groundbreaking design and 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 hull number 51, is equipped with advanced electromagnetic catapult technology - similar to that on the Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier. This system helps aircraft take off faster and more efficiently, while also allowing the ship to carry modern combat vehicles such as UAVs, helicopters and fighter jets.
The ship has a displacement of over 40,000 tons, a full-length deck, and two command islands. According to military analyst Du Wenlong, the integration of attack and reconnaissance UAVs will turn the Type 076 into a "UAV aircraft carrier", significantly expanding its range and combat effectiveness.
Unlike traditional amphibious assault 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 superiority in the air, water and land.
The ship can enhance group combat capabilities: When operating with the Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier or the Type 075 amphibious assault ship, the Type 076 will help the PLA create a powerful attack formation.
Analyst Song Zhongping commented that with its superior transport and attack capabilities, the Type 076 is comparable to light aircraft carriers, providing an advantage far beyond conventional landing ships.
According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the Type 076 is the world's largest amphibious assault ship, based on satellite images of the ship while it was under construction.
In the coming time, 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.
