China’s Type 004, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, may be nuclear-powered; launch likely in 2027 | Details

China is reportedly speeding up the construction of its fourth aircraft carrier, the Type 004, which could become the nation's first nuclear-powered carrier. According to US researchers, the vessel could be launched as early as 2027, a move that would bolster Beijing's naval reach and projection capabilities.

The South China Morning Post reports that a 2027 launch could coincide with the centenary of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) on August 1. This milestone has often been used by Beijing to showcase military advancements. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimates that the Type 004's construction is now comparable to that of the Fujian, China's third aircraft carrier, which was launched in June 2022.

However, analysts caution that the Type 004's larger size, advanced propulsion system, and potential construction challenges might impact its timeline. The vessel is being built at the Dalian Shipyard in northeastern China, where satellite imagery shows rapid progress since the appearance of prefabricated hull sections in early 2025.

By October 2026, the carrier had reached approximately 322 meters in length and 46 meters at its widest point, nearing the size of the US Navy's largest aircraft carriers. Estimates suggest the completed vessel could exceed the 333-meter length of the US Navy's Nimitz-class carriers and approach the 337-meter Gerald R. Ford class.

The Type 004 is also expected to feature an electromagnetic aircraft launch system and a displacement of around 110,000 tonnes, making it the world's largest aircraft carrier. This size would allow it to carry more aviation fuel, weapons, and maintenance facilities. Its expanded flight deck could accommodate more aircraft and enable simultaneous launch and recovery operations.

China's defense industry has also made significant strides in developing sixth-generation fighter jets, potentially giving Beijing a technological edge. As Beijing aims to expand its aircraft carrier fleet to six vessels by 2035, analysts say this expansion could significantly broaden China's military options and extend its reach into the Indian Ocean and western Pacific.