China’s surface fleet, including its aviation component, is gaining greater freedom of movement. Backed by an impressive arsenal of land-based weapons, the fleet is no longer limited to the defense of local waters and skies. It now has the ability to take greater risks and reach beyond its borders, perhaps even establishing a permanent presence in key regions such as the Indian Ocean.
One indication of this shift is the recent deployment of the Fujian aircraft carrier, China’s third aircraft carrier, for sea trials. Much has been made of the technological improvements this new aircraft carrier features, including electromagnetic catapults and arresting equipment, suggesting a significant advancement for the People’s Liberation Army Navy compared to the United States Navy.
This development has both tactical and strategic implications. At the tactical level, China is close to keeping one or even two carrier groups at sea at all times, expanding its options in carrier aviation and opening up new strategic perspectives for Beijing. At a strategic level, China’s focus on its fleet’s expeditionary capability reflects an understanding that coastal defense can be delegated to other means, allowing the fleet to focus on more ambitious objectives.
Comparison in technology with the United States
Furthermore, the comparison between Chinese and American aircraft carriers should not be too simplistic. Although Chinese aircraft carriers may be smaller, their effectiveness in the Chinese operational context may be adequate even without achieving parity with the Americans. The Chinese fleet is adapting to the geographic and strategic realities of the Indo-Pacific, where naval operations are not limited to massive naval engagements but are influenced by a variety of factors, including joint airpower and coastal defense strategies. .
Ultimately, the rise of China’s surface fleet reflects an evolution in the country’s maritime strategy, which is moving toward greater power projection and expeditionary capability. This could lead to greater investment in nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and a greater Chinese presence in global maritime theaters, significantly changing the balance of power in the world.
Source: The National Interest
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