China’s new warship Fujian.
China has test-launched its third aircraft carrier, the Fujian. The warship is the latest example of China’s growing naval power. On Wednesday, China took the Fujian to sea near Shanghai for testing. This new warship can remove about 80 thousand metric tons of water. Which is much more than the other two warships of China.
Although this Chinese warship is the most modern of the country, it is ahead or behind the USS Gerald Ford, the largest and latest warship of the United States, according to a report by CNN.
China’s previous two warships, Shandong and Liaoning, had water removal capacities of 66,000 and 60,000 metric tons, respectively. In contrast, the new warship Fujian has a water removal capacity of 80,000 metric tons. Fujian is undoubtedly a new milestone in the capabilities of China’s People’s Liberation Army.
However, CNN quoting various think tanks, if the comparison is made, then Gerald Ford is far ahead in terms of water removal. While Fujian’s capacity is to remove 80,000 metric tons, Gerald Ford can remove 100,000 metric tons.
The US warship is also ahead in terms of fighter aircraft capacity. While the Gerald Ford can carry 75 fighter jets, the Fujian’s capacity is limited to 60. The catapults used in Fujian fighter jets are electromagnetic. While the Gerald Ford has this facility, other US warships do not have it.
In another place, Fujian lags behind Gerald Ford. While US warships are nuclear-powered, Fujian still relies on conventional fuels. As a result, Gerald Ford has no need for sheep on shore unless supplies run out. But if Fujian is to stay at sea consistently, it will need the help of a well tanker.