China Commissions the Fujian: A Milestone in Naval Modernization

On November 5, 2025, China officially commissioned its third aircraft carrier, the Fujian (CV-18), at a ceremony held at the Sanya Naval Base on Hainan Island. This event, attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, marks a significant advancement in the People's Liberation Army Navy's (PLAN) capabilities and ambitions to project power beyond its coastal waters. The Fujian is notable for being the first aircraft carrier designed and built entirely in China, featuring an electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) that allows for the launch of heavier aircraft compared to its predecessors, the Liaoning and Shandong.

The Chinese Navy has commissioned the aircraft carrier Fujian, the most advanced in its fleetAl Jazeera (website)China commissions third Aircraft Carrier, its most advanced warship equipped with Electromagnetic CatapultsFrance 24China commissions aircraft carrier Fujian equipped with electromagnetic launch systemDW Newsthe first equipped with EMALS electromagnetic catapultsThe Straits TimesNBC News

The Fujian, displacing approximately 80,000 tons, incorporates several advanced technologies, including three EMALS, which enable the carrier to launch aircraft with full fuel loads and heavier payloads. This capability positions the Fujian as a more formidable naval asset, allowing for faster and more efficient operations. The carrier's air wing includes the J-35 stealth fighter, J-15T heavy fighter, and KJ-600 early warning aircraft, enhancing its operational versatility.

the first equipped with EMALS electromagnetic catapults

The commissioning of the Fujian is seen as a pivotal step in China's goal to establish a blue-water navy capable of operating far from its shores. Analysts suggest that the Fujian will enhance China's ability to project power in the South China Sea and potentially around Taiwan, a region of significant geopolitical tension. The presence of the Fujian, along with China's other carriers, complicates Taiwan's defensive strategies and raises concerns among neighboring countries regarding China's expanding military capabilities.

The Straits TimesAssociated PressDW NewsThe GuardianAl Jazeera (website)France 24New York Times

Chinese state media heralded the Fujian's commissioning as a "major milestone" in naval modernization, emphasizing its role in safeguarding national sovereignty and security. President Xi Jinping underscored the importance of the Fujian in enhancing China's military capabilities, stating that it represents a significant leap in the PLAN's operational readiness and technological prowess.

The Chinese Navy has commissioned the aircraft carrier Fujian, the most advanced in its fleet

Despite the advancements, some analysts caution that the Fujian still lags behind U.S. carriers in terms of operational experience and nuclear propulsion capabilities. The U.S. Navy operates 11 nuclear-powered carriers, which offer virtually unlimited range, while the Fujian is conventionally powered. Critics argue that while the Fujian's capabilities are impressive, they do not yet match the operational readiness and experience of the U.S. Navy.

NBC News

There are differing opinions on the effectiveness of the Fujian's design. Some reports suggest that the carrier's layout may impede flight operations, while others assert that it represents a significant technological leap for the PLAN. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the overall combat readiness of China's naval forces, given that the country has not engaged in a military conflict since 1979.

The Chinese Navy has commissioned the aircraft carrier Fujian, the most advanced in its fleet

As the Fujian enters active service, it is expected to undergo extensive training and operational testing to achieve full combat readiness. Analysts predict that China will continue to expand its carrier fleet, with reports indicating that a fourth carrier, potentially nuclear-powered, is already under construction. The ongoing modernization efforts reflect China's ambition to enhance its naval capabilities and assert its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

South China Morning PostThe Chinese Navy has commissioned the aircraft carrier Fujian, the most advanced in its fleetFox News (website)New York TimesChina commissions third Aircraft Carrier, its most advanced warship equipped with Electromagnetic CatapultsDW NewsThe Guardian

• “The Fujian carrier is a big leapfrog for China in terms of the capabilities of its aircraft carriers compared to the first two,” — Brian Hart, Deputy Director, China Power Project, CSIS

Associated Press

• “carriers are key to Chinese leadership’s vision of China as a great power with a blue-water navy” — Greg Poling, Director, Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative

Al Jazeera (website)

• “Three aircraft carriers are not actually sufficient. China's aircraft carriers still have certain shortcomings in terms of performance, quantity and combat experience if we want to fend off those countries capable of intervening in the Taiwan Strait,” — Song Zhongping, Military Analyst

China commissions third Aircraft Carrier, its most advanced warship equipped with Electromagnetic Catapults

The commissioning of the Fujian signifies a critical moment in China's naval evolution, reflecting its aspirations to become a dominant maritime power in the region and beyond.

The Straits Times