Aircraft Carrier ‘Fujian’ (Type-003)

China has today commissioned its largest and most modern aircraft carrier Fujian (Type-003). This is China’s first completely indigenous aircraft carrier, in which the electromagnetic catapult system has been installed. This is the same technology that is used in America’s super carriers.

It is believed that the inclusion of Fujian makes China’s Navy a three-carrier fleet, which will now extend its power projection capability from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean. Fujian’s capacity of 80,000 tonnes and length of 316 meters make it China’s largest carrier to date. More than 50 aircraft, including J-35 stealth fighter and KJ-600 early warning plane, can operate simultaneously. It can conduct 30 to 50 percent more sorties (air missions) than older ski-jump carrier designs.

Big change in the direction of blue-water navy

According to defense sources, this step is a major change in the direction of China’s blue-water navy (navy operating in the deep sea). Especially at a time when tensions are rising in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, this development may increase the concern of the US and allied countries as well as become a new strategic challenge for India in the Indian Ocean region.

Challenge to America’s naval advantage

The deployment of Fujian could challenge America’s naval advantage. It is being told that this carrier can increase China’s presence in the Western Pacific region by going beyond other island chains, that is, China’s hold can be strengthened in the areas around Guam, Japan and Taiwan. There is already tension in the Taiwan Strait, and now this carrier will further increase China’s power projection capability there. This is a strategic challenge for America, although it still has 11 nuclear carriers and a strong global network.

Impact on India and Asia

This is a matter of concern for India, because Fujian may also become active in the Indian Ocean region in the future, which is part of China’s String of Pearls strategy. Countries like Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Philippines are also considering this step as a threat to their regional security. This step could change the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.

Strategic implications for India

China is already increasing its presence in ports like Gwadar (Pakistan) and Hambantota (Sri Lanka) in what is called the String of Pearls strategy. If carriers like Fujian are deployed in the Indian Ocean, they could challenge India’s maritime edge. At the same time, India’s third aircraft carrier (IAC-2) is still awaiting approval, which may increase the risk of strategic imbalance.

India’s strength and counter-preparation

India is currently operating two carriers INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant and is strengthening its partnership with the Quad countries (America, Japan, Australia). Additionally, India has BrahMos missiles, advanced maritime surveillance, and support from US bases like Diego Garcia to maintain a balance.

Fujian’s future challenge to the world

The commission of Fujian is not an immediate threat to America, India and other countries, but it is definitely a challenge for the future. This is a sign of China’s growing naval power, which may increase its influence in the Indian Ocean in the coming years. At the same time, India now needs to accelerate its naval modernization plan and further strengthen strategic partnerships so that it can maintain its lead in the region.