China Launches Type 076 Amphibious Carrier “Sichuan” at Hudong Shipyard
Hudong-Zhonghua launched the Type 076 amphibious carrier named “Sichuan” in Shanghai on December 27. This 40,000-ton vessel features advanced technologies, including an electromagnetic catapult and robust self-defense systems. The rapid construction of the carrier highlights the efficiency of Chinese shipbuilding, contributing to China’s growing naval capabilities and positioning it competitively in global maritime power dynamics.
On December 27, Chinese shipyard Hudong-Zhonghua hosted a launch ceremony for its new Type 076 amphibious carrier at Changxing Island, Shanghai. Officially designated “Sichuan” and bearing hull number 51, this vessel has garnered significant international interest due to its notable size and advanced features, displacing over 40,000 tons and measuring approximately 260 meters in length and 50 meters in width.
The Type 076 surpasses its predecessor, the Type 075-class LHD, in all dimensions, comparable to American amphibious assault carriers like the Wasp and America-class. Construction of the hull progressed swiftly over the last 14 months, with preliminary documentation identified as far back as 2020 and contracts emerging in early 2023. The newly established Hudong shipyard benefits from reduced congestion at the Huangpu River, aiding in efficient naval construction, including frigates and vessels for coast guard configurations.
A notable advancement in amphibious carrier design, the Type 076 is distinguished as the first bespoke amphibious assault carrier to incorporate both a catapult and arresting gear for operating fixed-wing aircraft, with an electromagnetic type similar to that found on the CV-18 “Fujian”. The air group configuration remains speculative but will likely include various rotorcraft and fixed-wing UAVs, supported by the carrier’s infrastructure. The potential to launch navalized aircraft such as the J-35 would represent a significant enhancement in capability, unlike American counterparts that operate via short takeoffs and vertical landings.
Unique features of the Type 076 include dual side-mounted aviation elevators and a redesigned superstructure, transitioning to gas turbine propulsion for improved speed and operational efficiency. This is supplemented by robust self-defense systems, including multiple HQ-10 missile launchers and 30 mm CIWS, alongside modern sensors for situational awareness. Post-launch, the carrier will undergo extensive fitting out, following a timeline akin to its sister ships, with further installation of armaments and systems expected.
With this launch, China continues an impressive trend of launching naval vessels annually since 2019, showcasing the rapid advancement and maturity of Chinese shipbuilding capabilities as they produce sophisticated combat-ready vessels in an efficient and timely manner.
The launch of the Type 076 amphibious carrier by Hudong-Zhonghua marks a significant advancement in China’s naval capabilities. As an evolution of amphibious carrier design, the Type 076 incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including electromagnetic catapults and enhanced propulsion systems. This development aligns with China’s broader strategy to enhance its naval power and operational versatility, reflecting a commitment to modern military capabilities. The rapid construction of the Type 076 is indicative of the efficiencies gained in Chinese shipbuilding practices, particularly within newly established facilities designed for large-scale naval construction.
The launch of the Type 076 amphibious carrier “Sichuan” represents a major stride in China’s amphibious warship development. Equipped with advanced features such as electromagnetic catapults and gas turbine propulsion, it positions the People’s Liberation Army Navy on par with leading naval powers. This vessel not only enhances China’s maritime operational capabilities but also underscores the rapid advancements in Chinese shipbuilding and naval architecture, setting a precedent for future developments in the amphibious warfare domain.
Original Source: www.navalnews.com
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