Beijing: China’s third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has officially entered service following a ceremony that marked its handover to the navy. The event, attended by President Xi Jinping, was reported by state news agency Xinhua.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the commissioning of the Fujian represents a significant milestone in President Xi’s initiative to modernize China’s military and enhance its maritime power. This move comes amid ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea and persistent tensions with Taiwan. The official ceremony took place on Wednesday at a naval port located in China’s southern island province of Hainan.
Xinhua reported that after the ceremony, President Xi boarded the Fujian and was briefed on the development of the aircraft carrier’s combat capabilities and the construction and application of its electromagnetic catapult system. Footage released by state broadcaster CCTV showcased President Xi and other top officials from the Communist Party attending the event.
China is engaged in a naval rivalry with Washington in the contentious maritime region, yet analysts point out that China still trails the United States in overall military strength. However, Beijing has significantly invested in its military in recent years, causing concern among some East Asian governments, despite China’s assurances of peaceful intentions.
The Chinese navy has experienced substantial growth as leaders aim to expand the country’s influence in the Pacific and challenge a US-led alliance. Following recent sea trials, the Fujian now joins China’s two other active carriers, the Liaoning and the Shandong. Analysts note that the Fujian features more advanced take-off systems, enabling the Chinese air force to deploy aircraft with larger payloads and more fuel.