China's new aircraft carrier Fujian enters fleet as naval rivalries intensify

China has completed the completion of its modern aircraft carrier Fujian (Type-003). This technology is used in American supercarriers. China's Fujian could pose a new challenge for India, the United States, and the world in the future. This is a matter of concern for India, as Fujian could become active in the Indian Ocean region in the future, which is part of China's String of Pearls strategy.

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China today commissioned its largest and most modern aircraft carrier, the Fujian (Type-003). This is China's first fully indigenous aircraft carrier, equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, the same technology used in US supercarriers.

Fujian, China’s most advanced aircraft carrier

The addition of Fujian is believed to give the Chinese Navy a three-carrier fleet, expanding its power projection capabilities from the Pacific to the Indian Ocean. Fujian's 80,000-ton capacity and 316-meter length make it China's largest carrier to date. It can operate over 50 aircraft, including J-35 stealth fighters and KJ-600 early warning planes, simultaneously. It can conduct 30 to 50 percent more sorties (air missions) than older ski-jump carrier designs.

Challenge to US Naval Advantage

The deployment of Fujian could challenge US naval advantage. It is being reported that this carrier could expand China's presence in the Western Pacific beyond other island chains, strengthening China's hold on the areas around Guam, Japan, and Taiwan.

Impact on India and Asia

This is a matter of concern for India because Fujian could also become active in the Indian Ocean region in the future, which is part of China's String of Pearls strategy. Countries like Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and the Philippines also view this move as a threat to their regional security. This move could shift the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.

India's Strengths and Counter-Preparedness

India currently operates two carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, and is strengthening its partnership with the Quad countries (US, Japan, and Australia).

India's BrahMos missile, advanced maritime surveillance, and support from US bases like Diego Garcia maintain a balance.

Fujian: A Future Challenge for the World

The commissioning of Fujian may not pose an immediate threat to the US, India, and other countries, but it certainly poses a future challenge. It signals China's growing naval power, which could increase its influence in the Indian Ocean in the coming years. India, meanwhile, needs to accelerate its naval modernization plans and further strengthen strategic partnerships to maintain its advantage in the region.