New images of China's Fujian aircraft carrier unveiled
State media unveiled new images of the nation's most advanced aircraft carrier yet, including next generation launch tracks that can catapult a wider range of aircraft from its deck. First shown to the public in June 2022, the Fujian was entirely designed and built domestically. Yet to conduct its first sea trials, the aircraft carrier is larger and technologically more advanced than the Shandong, commissioned in 2019, and the Liaoning, which China bought second-hand from Ukraine and refitted domestically. On state television late on Tuesday, the Fujian was seen being towed by a smaller vessel with all of the three tracks of its electromagnetic catapult system visible on its deck. "In the new year, we will seize every minute, work with determination, and strive for combat readiness as soon as possible," state television cited a Fujian officer as saying. The Fujian has been conducting tests including mooring tests before its sea trials. The carrier started launch tests for its electromagnetic catapult system in November, according to the Global Times newspaper. President Xi Jinping has called for increased combat readiness and technological advances ahead of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army in 2027. (Reuters)