How Many Aircraft Carriers Does China Have?
The Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has made significant strides in recent years in expanding its naval capabilities, including the development of its aircraft carrier fleet. As of 2022, China has a total of two operational aircraft carriers, with a third under construction.
Liaoning (001)
The Liaoning (001) is China’s first aircraft carrier, which was commissioned in 2012. The carrier is a refitted and upgraded version of the former Soviet Union’s Kuznetsov-class aircraft carrier, Varyag. The Liaoning underwent significant modernization and refurbishment in Ukraine and China, with its first flight deck and catapults installed in 2005. The carrier has a displacement of around 50,000 tons and measures 305 meters (1,000 feet) in length.
Shandong (002)
The Shandong (002) is China’s second aircraft carrier, which was commissioned in 2019. The Shandong is China’s first domestically designed and built aircraft carrier, and it marks a significant milestone in China’s naval modernization. The carrier has a displacement of around 50,000 tons and measures 315 meters (1,033 feet) in length. The Shandong is equipped with the CATOBAR (Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) system, which allows for more efficient and safer take-offs and landings.
Fleet-02 (003)
The Fleet-02 (003) is China’s third aircraft carrier, which is currently under construction. The Fleet-02 is a more advanced design than the Liaoning and Shandong, with a longer flight deck and improved aviation facilities. The carrier is expected to have a displacement of around 80,000 tons and measures 330 meters (1,083 feet) in length. The Fleet-02 is expected to be equipped with the EMALS (Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System) and Arresting Gear (EMAG) system, which will allow for more efficient and safer take-offs and landings.
Comparison of China’s Aircraft Carriers
Here is a comparison of China’s three aircraft carriers:
| Carrier | Displacement (tons) | Length (meters) | Flight Deck | Aviation Facilities | CATOBAR/EMALS | Commissioned |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liaoning (001) | 50,000 | 305 | 24 | CATOBAR | 2012 | |
| Shandong (002) | 50,000 | 315 | 24 | CATOBAR | 2019 | |
| Fleet-02 (003) | 80,000 | 330 | 24 | EMALS | 2024 (estimated) |
Significance of China’s Aircraft Carrier Fleet
China’s aircraft carrier fleet is a significant component of its naval modernization and a key part of its strategic ambitions. Here are some key points to consider:
- Carrier Battle Groups: China’s aircraft carrier fleet is designed to operate as part of a carrier battle group, which includes destroyers, frigates, submarines, and other naval assets. This allows China to project power and defend its interests in the region.
- Deterrence: China’s aircraft carrier fleet serves as a deterrent to potential adversaries, demonstrating China’s military capabilities and willingness to defend its interests.
- Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Assistance: China’s aircraft carrier fleet can be used for peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance missions, such as providing aid and support in disaster-stricken areas.
- Economic Interests: China’s aircraft carrier fleet can also be used to protect its economic interests, such as its energy and trade routes.
Conclusion
China’s aircraft carrier fleet has come a long way since the commissioning of its first carrier, the Liaoning, in 2012. With two operational carriers and a third under construction, China is demonstrating its commitment to naval modernization and its ambition to become a major naval power. While there are still challenges and limitations to China’s aircraft carrier fleet, it is clear that China is a significant player in the Asia-Pacific region and will continue to play an important role in shaping regional dynamics.
