Confirmed by the U.S. Middlebury Institute of International Studies through analysis of satellite images and Chinese government documents
Challenges to the United States intensify, operations around the world take a step closer to the opposition
China has built a land-based prototype nuclear reactor for a large surface warship, a new analysis of satellite images and Chinese government documents obtained by The Associated Press shows. This shows that China is moving toward producing its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
Claims that China is planning to build a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier have been circulating for a long time, but this time it was confirmed that research results from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in California, USA, are researching a nuclear-powered propulsion system for an aircraft carrier-sized surface warship. This is my first time.
▲ Why is China’s push for a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier important?
The Chinese Navy is already the world’s largest in terms of numbers and is rapidly modernizing. Possessing a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier would increase the challenge to the United States and bring China closer to realizing its ambitions of operating around the world.
Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers can stay at sea much longer because they do not need to refuel, can load aircraft fuel and weapons in more space, and can produce more power, resulting in superior performance.
Currently, only the United States and France have nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. The United States has a total of 11 ships and can permanently deploy multiple strike groups around the world, including the Indo-Pacific.
But the Pentagon is increasingly concerned about China’s rapid fleet modernization, especially its new aircraft carriers. China currently has three aircraft carriers, including the first Fujian, which it designed and built in-house, and said it is building a fourth aircraft carrier, but did not specify whether the fourth aircraft carrier would be nuclear-powered or conventional.
[방콕(태국)=AP/뉴시스]
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Time.news Interview: Exploring China’s Naval Ambitions
Interviewer (Editor of Time.news): Good day, and welcome to Time.news! Today, we have an expert in naval strategy and international relations, Dr. Emily Foster, joining us to discuss an important topic that’s emerged recently – China’s advancements in military technology, particularly concerning its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier initiatives. Dr. Foster, thank you for being here.
Dr. Emily Foster: Thank you for having me. It’s great to be here to discuss such a significant development.
Interviewer: Dr. Foster, a recent analysis by the Middlebury Institute of International Studies has confirmed that China is indeed developing a land-based prototype nuclear reactor for a large surface warship. How significant is this move in terms of China’s military strategy?
Dr. Foster: This development is quite pivotal for China’s military ambitions. Historically, nuclear-powered aircraft carriers have been the hallmark of leading naval powers, and currently, only the United States and France possess them. By moving toward this capability, China is asserting its position as a global maritime force and is preparing to extend its operational reach significantly.
Interviewer: Indeed. The article mentions that nuclear-powered aircraft carriers can stay at sea much longer. Can you elaborate on what strategic advantages this capability offers?
Dr. Foster: Certainly! Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers can operate for extended periods without the need for refueling, which allows them to project power more efficiently and sustain operations far from their home ports. They also have the capability to carry more aircraft, weapons, and supplies. This translates to a stronger, more versatile naval force that can respond quickly to various threats and crises in multiple regions simultaneously.
Interviewer: Given that China already has the world’s largest navy in terms of numbers, what implications does the addition of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers have for U.S. naval dominance?
Dr. Foster: This development intensifies the competition between the U.S. and China. The U.S. has maintained naval dominance with its fleet of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, enabling it to support various operations globally. China’s capability to develop and potentially deploy its own nuclear carriers challenges this dominance. As the Pentagon worries about China’s rapid fleet modernization, the balance of naval power could very well shift, leading to increased tensions in critical areas like the Indo-Pacific.
Interviewer: The article touches on China’s current aircraft carrier fleet and its plans for further expansion. Can you share your insights on how this aligns with China’s broader geopolitical strategies?
Dr. Foster: Absolutely. The expansion of China’s aircraft carrier fleet is a part of its broader strategy to assert itself on the global stage and protect its national interests, including trade routes and territorial claims. As it continues to modernize its navy, China is signaling to the world—especially to the U.S.—that it’s serious about defending its sovereignty and expanding its influence. This move not only enhances China’s deterrence capabilities but also gives it a stronger voice in international maritime disputes.
Interviewer: Dr. Foster, what should we be on the lookout for as this situation develops? Are there specific indicators that could signal a shift in naval dynamics?
Dr. Foster: We should watch for several key indicators: first, the pace at which China progresses in its nuclear-powered carrier program and any announcements regarding new military hardware. Secondly, changes in U.S. defense strategy and military posture in response to these developments will be crucial. increased military exercises involving U.S. forces in the Indo-Pacific region could signal heightened tensions. The next few years will be critical, as both nations evaluate their strategies and capabilities in this evolving landscape.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Foster, for such an insightful discussion! It’s clear that China’s advancements in nuclear naval technology could have far-reaching implications globally. We appreciate your insights and look forward to your expertise as these developments unfold.
Dr. Foster: Thank you for having me. I’m looking forward to keeping a close eye on this important issue as well.