The first of a new series of Chinese amphibious attack ships could be in service by the end of 2026, a Chinese military expert told state media on the weekend, roughly a week after the launch of the warship.
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Jets could also be doing test take-offs from the country’s latest aircraft carrier this year, Shao Yongling, a former professor of the People’s Liberation Army Rocket (PLA) Force Command College, said in a programme aired by state broadcaster CCTV on Saturday.
Shao’s forecasts follow the launch late last month of the first Type 076 warship, a vessel bearing the hull number 51 and named after the southwestern province of Sichuan.
With the completion of the overall hull and the power system, the ship will now undergo equipment commissioning, mooring trials and sea trials.
“It may take over one year for the outfitting and tests, before it goes for sea trials,” Shao said.
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“If all goes well and fast, the Sichuan may be ready to enter service by the end of 2026. If it is a little slower, I think it will be no problem by the middle of 2027.”