The Chinese naval build up continues with the launch of Sichuan amphibious assault ship, the lead ship of the Type 076 class, displacing 40,000 tons and equipped with an electromagnetic catapult for fixed-wing aircraft operations.

China has launched its first next-generation amphibious assault ship, adding a powerful cutting-edge warship to the country’s fast-expanding navy as it races to rival the military power of the United States.

China's new amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan, has an electromagnetic catapult system that makes it essentially a light aircraft carrier.