China’s aircraft carrier Fujian may be set for third sea trial in quick succession

Notices to shipping suggest a new trial may be under way, a possible indication that the previous two trials went smoothly

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The Fujian may soon be heading out on its third sea trial. Photo: Xinhua

Published: 8:00pm, 3 Jul 2024Updated: 9:44pm, 3 Jul 2024

China’s third and most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, may be embarking on its third sea trial starting from Wednesday after the maritime authorities sealed off traffic in the Yangtze estuary.

Such a rapid succession of trials – the first was held in early May – would indicate the “smooth” progress of the tests so far, according to military observers.

The Shanghai Maritime Safety Administration issued a notice saying inbound and outbound ships would face traffic controls around the exit of a deep water channel at the mouth of the Yangtze River.

Lu Li-shih, a former instructor at the Taiwan Naval Academy in Kaohsiung, said similar language had been used in notices issued during previous tests.

“The text structure of the navigation warning is the same as the two navigation warnings issued in May, both of which implemented traffic controls at the exit of deepwater channels for large ships,” Lu said.

A notice issued by the Zhejiang Maritime Safety Administration also said military activities would be taking place in specific parts of the East China Sea between Wednesday and Friday.