After heavy investment, China’s next generation of weapons and military equipment nears readiness
- Several key pieces that could significantly improve the capabilities of the People’s Liberation Army are expected to be completed or delivered next year
- Aircraft carriers, strategic stealth bombers and nuclear submarines are among the equipment being developed and tested
China has been investing heavily in its military modernisation, with one of the focuses on the research and development of next-generation weapons and equipment.
There have been advances in recent years, and several key pieces that may significantly improve the PLA’s capabilities are expected to be completed or delivered to the forces in the next year.
Second aircraft carrier
China’s Type 001A carrier – its first domestically built carrier – has undergone three sea trials in 2018. It is likely to enter service sometime next year.
In comparison, China’s first carrier, Liaoning, had its first sea trial in 2011 and was commissioned in 2012.
Based on Liaoning, a 55,000-tonne Soviet Kuznetsov-class vessel, the Type 001A has made some significant modifications including upgrading the radar system, integrating the command bridge and, in particular, redesigning the aircraft hangar to make it capable to carry 32 J-15 fighter jets instead of 26. The ship is still conventionally powered with a ski-jump take-off.