China's third aircraft carrier, the CNS Fujian, is towed out of its dry dock at China State Shipbuilding Corp's Jiangnan Shipyard Group in Shanghai at a launch ceremony. (Photo/Xinhua)
The CNS Fujian, China's third aircraft carrier, will undergo trials at sea this year, according to Senior Captain Qian Shumin, executive officer of the vessel.
Qian said in a news program broadcast on Monday on China Central Television that the trials will contribute to the realization of the centenary goals of the People's Liberation Army.
He did not provide details on the new carrier's schedule.
The Fujianwas unveiled on June 17 in Shanghai as it was towed out of its dry dock at the China State Shipbuilding Corp's Jiangnan Shipyard. The carrier is now in the final stages of construction at the shipyard.
Upon its completion, the gigantic vessel will displace more than 80,000 metric tons of water. It will be the largest and mightiest warship any Asian nation has ever built, as well as one of the world's biggest.
Currently, the PLA Navy operates two carriers — the CNS Liaoningand the CNS Shandong. Both have a standard displacement of around 50,000 tons and a conventional propulsion system, and they use a ski jump method for launching fixed-wing aircraft.
Compared with its two predecessors, the Fujianis much bigger and heavier, and has a larger flight deck and smaller superstructure.
The Liaoningunderwent 10 sea trials before going into service, and the Shandongconducted nine before its commissioning.
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