China Commissions Its Most Advanced Aircraft Carrier ‘Fujian’, Signaling a New Era in Naval Power

China has commissioned its most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, featuring an electromagnetic catapult launch system that rivals U.S. capabilities. Overseen by President Xi Jinping, the vessel’s induction marks a major leap in China’s naval modernization and power projection ambitions.

In a move that underscores China’s accelerating military modernization, Beijing has officially commissioned its most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, marking a defining moment in the country’s naval history. The commissioning ceremony, held in the southern province of Hainan, was personally overseen by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who toured the vessel’s deck and reviewed its performance at sea.

According to BBC NEWS , the Fujian is China’s third aircraft carrier and represents a significant technological leap from its predecessors the Liaoning and Shandong, both of which were developed using Russian designs. The Fujian stands apart with its electromagnetic catapult system, a cutting edge launch mechanism that enables aircraft to take off with heavier weapon payloads and more fuel, allowing for longer-range strike capabilities.

State media described the Fujian as a “major milestone” in China’s naval advancement, hailing its entry into service as a testament to Beijing’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The electromagnetic catapult, previously seen only on U.S. carriers, symbolizes a major shift in China’s ability to project power far beyond its shores.

“The Fujian can launch three different types of aircraft with its electromagnetic catapult and flat flight deck,” reported BBC News, citing state media sources. This new flexibility, experts say, places China one step closer to matching U.S. naval capabilities a development that has drawn attention and concern from Washington and its regional allies.

Under Xi Jinping’s leadership, China’s navy has expanded at an unprecedented rate, both in terms of fleet size and technological sophistication. The country now boasts the largest navy in the world by number of ships, a transformation that has reshaped the security balance in the Indo Pacific region.

During the commissioning ceremony, Xi addressed the sailors aboard the Fujian, who reportedly lined up along the flight deck in formation. “Follow the Party’s command, fight to win, and uphold fine conduct!” they chanted in unison, as Xi toured the carrier and was briefed on its operational systems.

Analysts view the induction of the Fujian as part of Beijing’s broader strategy to assert dominance in regional waters, particularly amid growing tensions in the South China Sea and around Taiwan. With its advanced launch systems, long range strike capabilities, and modernized command technology, the Fujian is expected to play a pivotal role in China’s future power projection missions.

As the vessel officially enters service, military observers note that the world is witnessing a new phase of naval competition, where technology and speed of modernization are redefining global maritime power dynamics.