Satellite images point to larger Chinese aircraft carrier under construction
New satellite images indicate that China’s next aircraft carrier may be longer than the US Navy’s largest warship. The images show work on a bulbous bow at Dalian Shipyard, offering clues about the vessel’s size and the logistical demands of longer-range operations.
China’s next aircraft carrier could be longer than the US Navy’s largest warship, according to new satellite images reported by the South China Morning Post. The images were captured on September 4 and show work beginning on the bulbous bow of a carrier under construction at Dalian Shipyard in northeastern China. Defence intelligence company Janes reported the development.
Measurements taken from the stern to the projected bow have prompted comparisons with the largest US naval vessel, although the supplied material does not provide the measurements themselves. The report says the images offer fresh clues about how far from home Beijing may intend to operate its carrier fleet and about the logistics such operations would require. The supplied material does not identify the ship’s expected launch date, operational role or final dimensions.
This independently written report is based on information supplied by the named publisher. Vertrix News has not independently verified the source report.