Story perspectives

China's Fujian Carrier Needs Nuclear Power to Succeed

1/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

A military magazine says future carriers can only address Fujian's design flaws by adopting nuclear power.
The Fujian, commissioned in November, is China's first domestically designed carrier and weighs over 80,000 tonnes.
It uses two electromagnetic catapults, versus three on the US Gerald R. Ford class, slowing launches.
The Fujian can carry fifth-generation stealth fighters and other aircraft, but design flaws may hinder operational effectiveness.

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Story summary

A military magazine says future carriers can only address Fujian's design flaws by adopting nuclear power.
The Fujian, commissioned in November, is China's first domestically designed carrier and weighs over 80,000 tonnes.
It uses two electromagnetic catapults, versus three on the US Gerald R. Ford class, slowing launches.
The Fujian can carry fifth-generation stealth fighters and other aircraft, but design flaws may hinder operational effectiveness.