China launches sea trials for cutting-edge Fujian aircraft carrier

China’s first homegrown aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has been launched for sea trials, according to Chinese state media. The Fujian, China’s first indigenously designed and produced aircraft carrier, has been in development since June 2002. At 80,000 metric tons in displacement and 316 meters in length, it dwarfs China’s two other aircraft carriers – the Shandong and Liaoning – which were both bought from Ukraine in 1998. If the sea trials are successful, the Fujian could enter service as early as next year. This first stage is set to test the ‘reliability and stability of the carrier’s propulsion and electric power systems.’