PLAN Carrier Fujian Expected to Achieve Full Readiness This Year, Chinese State Media Says

Beijing’s newest and largest aircraft carrier is expected to achieve full operational readiness this year, Chinese state media reported when highlighting the rapid progress of the country’s carrier program and naval aviation developments. Chinese military commentators expressed optimism that the Type 003 aircraft carrier Fujian (18) would achieve full operational capability within the year, state media Global Times reported earlier this month. The 80,000-ton super carrier is China’s first flattop to field a catapult-assisted take-off but arrested recovery (CATOBAR) system via an electromagnetic catapult, allowing Fujian to launch new aircraft types and support larger payloads. The vessel is the third