China advances construction of massive aircraft carrier potentially larger than USS Gerald R. Ford

Satellite imagery captured at the Dalian shipyard shows a sizable aircraft carrier hull in progress, identified by its distinctive rounded bow. Specialists calculate the ship's overall length to fall within 336-339 metres, which would place it marginally above the 333-metre USS Gerald R. Ford and roughly 20 metres longer than China's current carrier Fujian. The vessel, informally referred to as Type 004, is expected to provide expanded internal volume for the People's one outlet Army Air Force, potentially housing 75-90 aircraft compared with Fujian's 50-60.

Analysts suggest the unusually long hull may be intended to house a nuclear power plant, enhancing speed and operational range. Additionally, satellite data confirm a separate large support ship, about 271 metres long, being built to supply the carrier with ammunition and fuel. Both ships are part of China's effort to bolster its blue-water naval capabilities despite a limited overseas base network.