China's most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has entered service just days after a grand commissioning ceremony led by Chinese leader Xi Jinping, according to state media reports.
This new vessel, the country's third aircraft carrier, boasts advanced electromagnetic catapults enabling faster plane launches, marking a significant milestone in the development of China's military capabilities.
With its induction into active duty, China now possesses the largest navy globally in terms of sheer numbers, putting unprecedented pressure on the United States and its allies to maintain naval parity.
The Fujian is designed to launch multiple types of aircraft and is capable of carrying heavier weaponry and fuel loads, allowing for longer-range strikes than its predecessors, the Liaoning and Shandong.
State media have hailed the Fujian as a crucial leap forward for the Chinese navy, which has been rapidly bolstering its strength under Xi's leadership.
In a display of national pride, the commissioning ceremony in Hainan province featured Xi touring the deck, engaging with sailors who proudly saluted and chanted slogans emphasizing loyalty and military readiness.
With this new addition, China aims to compete directly with the U.S., the only other nation operating aircraft carriers with a similar electromagnetic launch system.
