ANI
China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has already become the largest navy in the world in terms of ship numbers. Adding nuclear-powered aircraft carriers to its fleet could significantly enhance its blue-water capabilities, allowing operations beyond China’s coastal waters and in areas traditionally dominated by the United States.
China has built a prototype nuclear reactor designed for large surface warships. It is a major step towards the country’s ambitions of building its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. An analysis of recent satellite images and Chinese government documents conducted by the Middlebury Institute of International Studies confirmed that Beijing is working on a nuclear propulsion system suitable for the warship. The new reactor prototype, built in mountainous terrain near Leshan in Sichuan province, reflects China’s commitment to developing advanced naval capabilities that can rival global naval powers.
China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has already become the largest navy in the world in terms of ship numbers. Adding nuclear-powered aircraft carriers to its fleet could significantly enhance its blue-water capabilities, allowing operations beyond China’s coastal waters and in areas traditionally dominated by the United States. Nuclear-powered carriers offer the advantage of extended operational endurance, as they can remain at sea for longer periods of time without the need to refuel, allowing greater flexibility and increased space for weapons and aircraft fuel.
Currently only the United States and France operate nuclear-powered carriers, with the US having 11 aircraft, allowing it to maintain a significant and mobile presence in regions such as the Indo-Pacific. China’s push toward nuclear carriers represents a response to growing Chinese aspirations to establish American power and influence around the world. The Pentagon has expressed concern over China’s modernization efforts, with its latest report to Congress focusing on China’s “increasing demands” for its navy to operate at greater distances.
