Chinese Military Launches 'World's Largest' Naval Amphibious Assault Ship With Electromagnetic Catapult Technology

China has launched the first of its next generation of amphibious assault ships, the Type 076, equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system.

Named the Sichuan and marked with hull number 51, the independently-develop ship was officially launched during a naming ceremony at the Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.

The CCTV report described the Sichuan as “a key asset” that will contribute significantly to naval modernisation and bolster the PLA Navy’s long-range operational capacities.

The vessel has a full-load displacement exceeding 40,000 tonnes, and incorporates a dual-island design and a full-length flight deck.

A standout feature of the Sichuan is its electromagnetic catapult and arresting system, which enables the deployment of fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment on the vessel.

This electromagnetic launch technology is also present on China’s Fujian aircraft carrier, launched in 2022, enhancing the frequency of aircraft takeoffs from its platform.

According to the Washington-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the Type 076 is poised to become the world’s largest amphibious assault ship, based on satellite images of the vessel captured during its construction.

The August report by the think tank stated that the deployment of the Type 076 would expand the PLA’s capacity to project combat power, both in the Western Pacific, the South China Sea, and beyond.

After its launch, the ship will undergo a series of planned phases, including equipment commissioning, mooring trials, and eventual sea trials, according to CCTV.

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