China Unveils Its First Super-Carrier

Implications for Indian Navy

China’s naval prowess takes a monumental leap as its first super-carrier, the Fujian, completes successful sea trials, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s military capabilities.

The Fujian, boasting an impressive 80,000-ton displacement, has returned to port after showcasing its advanced design and integrated propulsion system. This formidable vessel, equipped with electromagnetic catapults for aircraft launch, stands as a testament to China’s technological advancements in naval warfare. Notably, this technology, previously exclusive to the US Navy, underscores China’s ambition to rival global maritime powers.

With trials of carrier-borne aircraft imminent, the Fujian is poised to undergo rigorous testing, potentially taking up to a year before attaining full operational status. China’s strategic shift towards naval expansion reflects its broader ambitions to assert dominance, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

This development poses a pertinent challenge for the Indian Navy, which currently operates two aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. Despite India’s aspirations for a larger carrier fleet, concerns over cost have hindered progress. The estimated $7 billion price tag for a carrier akin to the Fujian, coupled with an additional $8 billion for fighter aircraft, underscores the financial hurdles India faces in expanding its naval capabilities.

In response to budget constraints, India is contemplating the acquisition of a smaller carrier, mirroring the size of the INS Vikrant, and negotiating with Dassault of France for 26 Rafale-M fighters. This strategic move aims to modernize India’s carrier fleet, replacing aging Russian jets and bolstering operational effectiveness.

As of May 2024, the global landscape of naval power comprises nine nations operating frontline aircraft carriers. The United States leads with 11 operational carriers, followed by China, Italy, the United Kingdom, India, Japan, France, Spain, and Russia. China’s ascent in naval dominance with the Fujian underscores the shifting dynamics of maritime power, posing complex challenges for regional players like India.