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China’s Next Aircraft Carrier May Exceed the Size of the U.S. Navy’s Largest Warship
By Drooid · · How we work
New Construction Milestone
Satellite imagery captured on September 4 shows work beginning on the bulbous bow of an aircraft carrier under construction at Dalian Shipyard in northeastern China. The images were reported by defence-intelligence firm Janes, which interprets the visual evidence as indicating that the hull is being shaped for a vessel larger than any currently in the People’s Liberation Army Navy.
Projected Dimensions
Janes’ measurements from the stern to the projected tip of the bow place the carrier’s eventual overall length between 336 metres and 339 metres (approximately 1,100 feet). By comparison, Janes lists the U.S. Navy’s newest carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, at about 333 metres. If the Chinese ship reaches the upper end of the estimate, it would be marginally longer than the Ford-class carrier.
Strategic Implications
Analysts note that a carrier of this size could enable Beijing to project power farther from its coastline and would likely require expanded logistical support. The larger hull may accommodate more aircraft, fuel, and supplies, potentially extending the operational reach of China’s carrier strike group. The development reflects a broader trend of the People’s Republic seeking blue-water capabilities comparable to those of the United States.
Data Summary
- Location of construction: Dalian Shipyard, northeastern China
- Satellite image date: September 4 (captured)
- Estimated length: 336 – 339 metres (1,100 feet)
- U.S. counterpart length: ~333 metres (USS Gerald R. Ford)
The emerging dimensions of China’s next carrier, as inferred from recent satellite data and Janes’ analysis, suggest a deliberate effort to match or surpass the size of the United States’ most advanced carrier, signaling an escalation in the strategic balance of naval power.