Beijing [China], October 23: Chinese social media is spreading information that the Chinese military's most advanced landing ship is starting to test an electromagnetic launch system, believed to be used to deploy UAVs.
The South China Morning Post reported on October 23 that the Type 076 Sichuan landing ship is being installed at a shipyard in Shanghai, China. On social media , users spread images of the modern launch system facing the Yangtze River area, instead of facing the dock.
In addition, the shipyard and wharf areas are well lit at night. This has raised speculations that the ship is testing its aircraft launch system, in the context that it will be used as a carrier for unmanned aerial vehicles ( UAVs ).
The Shanghai Maritime Safety Administration also issued a restricted area, right in front of the pier entrance, from October 20 to 29. The ban stated that the said area will have "underwater activities" from 9 am to 5 pm.
Observers speculate that the Sichuan ship tested its electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) during the above time frame.
Chinese officials have not commented on information related to the Sichuan landing ship's testing activities.
According to Zona Militar , the launch system is a feature that sets the Type 076 Sichuan apart from other Chinese landing ships. The news of the ship testing the system comes after reports that the ship will begin sea trials.
Recent images show the ship has had its launch system cover removed, as well as a new radar system installed. The upgrades are said to make the Sichuan the most modern amphibious ship in service with the Chinese Navy.
Launched in December last year, the ship attracted attention for its large size, with a flight deck about 260 meters long and 43 meters wide. The ship can carry up to 1,000 sailors and has many aircraft hangars. In addition, the ship is also equipped with an advanced braking system (to help aircraft decelerate quickly on the ship's runway when landing), which was upgraded from the experience of installing the braking system of the Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier . The Fujian is also the first landing ship of the Type 076 class of the Chinese Navy.
Chinese analysts say the ship could operate China's new version of the GJ-11 UAV, and carry Chinese and Russian helicopter models.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper
