According to Xinhua, the Sichuan, one of the largest amphibious assault ships globally, has officially begun its sea trials as of Friday. This significant vessel represents a leap forward for China’s naval capabilities.
The Type 076 ship was launched in December 2024 and is designed to enhance the navy’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations through its advanced electromagnetic catapult launch system. Dubbed the world’s first drone carrier, this ship is an evolution from China’s earlier Type 075 amphibious assault ship that debuted in September 2019.
The ongoing sea trials are crucial for evaluating Sichuan’s engine and power systems. This development marks a pivotal moment for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), which anticipates taking possession of this strategic asset by late 2026.
This announcement follows China’s commissioning of Fujian, its most sophisticated aircraft carrier equipped with similar electromagnetic catapult technology. With a full-load displacement of approximately 50,000 tonnes and an expansive flight deck measuring 260 meters long and 52 meters wide, Sichuan surpasses both the United States’ America-class carriers and Japan’s Izumo-class helicopter carriers.
The impressive dimensions allow for greater aircraft capacity and operational efficiency during launches. Notably, Sichuan stands out as it incorporates a CATOBAR (Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) system that enables it to operate both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft seamlessly.
Among its UAVs is the GJ-11 fixed-wing stealth drone designed for precision strikes and reconnaissance missions-an emblematic feature reflected in the ship’s crest design.
The trend towards drone carriers is gaining momentum worldwide; South Korea has shifted plans from developing a light aircraft carrier to constructing at least three drone carriers weighing around 30,000 tonnes each. Additionally, Iran recently welcomed its inaugural drone carrier named Shahid Beheshti earlier this year.
