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China has launched its third aircraft carrier, Fujian, equipped with advanced electromagnetic catapult technology. Its commissioning amid tensions in the South China Sea and growing Chinese naval presence poses new strategic challenges for India and other regional powers.
China's Third Aircraft Carrier, the 'Fujian'
New Delhi: China has recently completed its third aircraft carrier, named 'Fujian.' This news is significant because it comes at a time of heightened regional tensions in the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea.
On Saturday, the PLA-Navy released a video of the Fujian's operational demonstration, and its commissioning ceremony was held this week in the presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The most distinctive feature of the Fujian is its electromagnetic catapult technology. Previously, only American aircraft carriers, such as the Gerald Ford class, were equipped with this technology. This technology allows fighter jets to take off and land from shorter runway decks, significantly increasing the warship's combat capabilities.
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China has completed the Fujian at a time of escalating tensions with the Philippines in the South China Sea. In the past two years, there have been several clashes between the Chinese and Philippine navies.
China alleges that the Philippines is acting against its policies with the support of the United States. Furthermore, China's stance on Taiwan remains aggressive. Recently, former US President Donald Trump claimed that the Chinese president had assured him that he would not attack Taiwan.
China's third aircraft carrier could pose a challenge not only to the Philippines or Taiwan but also to India. China's naval activities in the Indian Ocean are steadily increasing. Its warships, survey vessels, and submarines are regularly sighted there.
India currently has two aircraft carriers—INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. The Indian Navy is also requesting a third aircraft carrier, but the government has not yet given its approval.
A few years ago, the then Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, stated that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands could serve the role of a third aircraft carrier due to their strategically important location in the Indian Ocean.
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China's Fujian aircraft carrier could significantly impact the regional balance of power. It emerges as a strategic asset amidst its confrontations with the United States and the Philippines.
For India, this signals the need to further enhance its maritime power and surveillance capabilities in the Indian Ocean.
