ASSESSMENTS

China's Navy Takes a Bow

May 4, 2017 | 15:26 GMT

China has launched its first domestically built aircraft carrier, the Type 002. Although it is not expected to be commissioned until 2020, its completion demonstrates the growing capabilities of the Chinese carrier program.

(STR/AFP/Getty Images)

In many ways, China's rise has been built on the back of its seagoing fleet. Chinese commercial shipping helped carry its economy to global prominence and its naval forces allow it not only to back up its maritime claims in the South and East China seas but also to increasingly project power far beyond its shores. Now, its shipbuilding prowess -- and its global reach -- have taken a demonstrable leap forward with the completion of its first fully domestically built aircraft carrier....

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