China on Friday launched its first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, equipped with electromagnetic catapult and arresting technology, allowing it to launch manned and unmanned combat aircraft.
The Sichuan, a new-generation vessel, was launched in Shanghai and named after Southwest China’s Sichuan Province.
With a full load displacement of over 40,000 tons, the Type 076 can carry fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment.
The commissioning of this large amphibious assault ship will enhance the PLANavy’s comprehensive combat capability, particularly in far seas operations.