China’s drone-carrying amphibious assault ship the Sichuan expected to start sea trials
Newly released images of the Type 076 vessel have generated speculation that it is ready for a new phase of testing
Pictures circulating on social media showing that the covers had been removed from the Type 076’s electric launch catapult and that a radar system had apparently been installed generated speculation that the ship was ready for the trials.
The Sichuan is seen as a key asset for the PLA Navy’s unmanned aerial vehicle operations because of its electromagnetic catapult launch system, and is often described as the world’s first drone carrier.
Amphibious assault ships are likely to play a major role in any military conflict involving Taiwan, and the type 076 ships will be able to expand the operation of PLA strike groups.
Beijing views Taiwan as part of China and has never ruled out the use of force to reunify it with the mainland. Most countries, including its main international partner the United States, do not recognise Taiwan as an independent state, but Washington opposes any attempt to take it by force and is legally bound to supply the island with arms to defend itself.