China reveals images of nuclear aircraft carrier
A Chinese shipbuilder has leaked images related to plans to develop new aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines.
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Model of China's future nuclear aircraft carrier. Photo:Sputnik. |
China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) recently appeared to have leaked photos of the design model of the Type 003 class aircraft carrier.The latest of the country's navy, before the image was deleted from social media, according toSputnik.
In a series of photos leaked on March 16, Beijing's new nuclear aircraft carrier will likely be equipped with four aircraft launch systems, a squadron of J-20 stealth fighters and an attack drone on board. This is said to be China's largest aircraft carrier model in the near future.
In addition, the images posted by CSIC also include information related to plans to develop new nuclear submarines for the Chinese navy.
CSIC revealed its ambition in late February to develop a class of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers by 2025. Beijing also plans to equip future aircraft carriers with electromagnetic catapult systems to replace steam catapults, which take up a lot of space and require high maintenance costs.
Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged last October to transform the country's military into a world-class fighting force by 2050. He has made technological development a pillar of the new policy, investing in stealth fighters, aircraft carriers and missiles.
