Overview
- The Sichuan, China’s first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, left Shanghai for trials in the South China Sea, the PLA Navy said.
- The navy described the mission as routine testing that is not aimed at any specific target.
- The sail takes place as the United States, the Philippines, and Japan conduct large joint exercises in the same waters.
- Taiwan’s defense ministry reported the carrier Liaoning crossed the Taiwan Strait toward the South China Sea and shared photos of J‑15 jets and helicopters on its deck.
- Chinese state media say the 40,000‑ton‑class ship has a full‑length flight deck and electromagnetic launch gear for fixed‑wing aircraft, expanding amphibious lift for troops, vehicles, and drones.