China has made significant strides in developing a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, as evidenced by the construction of a land-based prototype nuclear reactor for a large surface warship. This development marks a crucial step towards China's ambition of deploying its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, according to a recent analysis of satellite imagery and Chinese government documents.
The move is seen as a strategic advancement for China's navy, already the world's largest in terms of numbers, which has been rapidly modernizing its fleet. The addition of nuclear-powered carriers would enhance China's capabilities for global operations, challenging the United States' dominance in naval power.
Nuclear-powered carriers offer extended operational capabilities due to their ability to remain at sea for longer periods without the need for frequent refueling. They also provide more space for fuel and weapons, enabling advanced systems and enhancing overall performance.
Currently, only the United States and France possess nuclear-powered carriers, with the U.S. maintaining 11 such vessels that support its global naval presence, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
China's modernization efforts include the construction of new carriers, with the Type 003 Fujian being the first carrier designed and built entirely by China. The country is reportedly working on a fourth carrier, although it has not confirmed whether it will be nuclear-powered or conventionally powered.
The research conducted by the Middlebury Institute of International Studies revealed that China has established a prototype reactor for a carrier, based on various sources such as satellite images, project tenders, and official documents. The reactor is located at Base 909 in Sichuan province and is linked to China's Nuclear Power Institute.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized the importance of building a top-tier navy to bolster China's maritime capabilities. The country's defense strategy has shifted towards expanding naval operations beyond its immediate waters to distant seas, as outlined in its recent defense white paper.
While details about the nuclear-powered carrier remain undisclosed, experts suggest that Chinese shipyards have the capacity to work on multiple carriers simultaneously, indicating the potential for the concurrent production of both conventionally powered and nuclear-powered vessels.
