**New Ship Launch**: China has launched a new amphibious assault ship named **Sichuan**, which is the first of the Type 076 class. It is China’s largest amphibious assault ship, displacing **40,000 tons**.

**Capabilities**: The Sichuan is designed to enhance the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) combat abilities in distant seas. It is equipped with an **electromagnetic catapult** that allows it to launch fighter jets from its deck, and it also features arrestor technology for landing jets.

**Design Purpose**: The ship is intended for launching ground troops in landing crafts while providing air support during operations.

**Development Background**: China’s first amphibious assault ships, the Type 075, were launched in **2019**. The PLAN has been modernizing its military forces for over a decade, aiming for global operational capabilities beyond its coastal waters.

**Technological Innovations**: China demonstrated the ability to launch fighter jets using the new electromagnetic technology on its aircraft carrier, the **Fujian**, which was launched two years prior to this announcement.

**Expert Commentary**: Military expert **Song Zhongping** referred to the Sichuan as a “light aircraft carrier,” highlighting its advanced features.

**Future Testing**: The Sichuan will undergo additional testing, including sea trials.

**Navy Expansion**: China has the world’s largest navy and is continuously upgrading its fleet. Recent developments include efforts to design a **nuclear-powered aircraft carrier**, enabling long-distance operations without reliance on refueling bases.

**Comparison with U.S. Navy**: The U.S. operates **11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers**, allowing for robust and permanent deployment of multiple strike groups globally, including in the Asia-Pacific region.

**Contributor**: The report includes contributions from AP researcher **Yu Bing** from Beijing.