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China Plans Nuclear Carrier with Railguns, Laser Weapons
China's Type 004 carrier will feature nuclear propulsion for sustained power, deploying over 100 aircraft with autonomous systems and advanced electromagnetic and laser weapons.
- Satellite imagery and shipyard reports show China advancing a Type 004 nuclear-powered aircraft carrier at Xianglujiao drydock, featuring EMALS and capacity for 100+ aircraft with AI-integrated uncrewed systems.
- To challenge U.S. naval dominance, Beijing seeks to field a Type 004 nuclear-powered carrier with EMALS that supports electromagnetic and directed-energy weapons for a strategic edge.
- At a Victory Day parade in September 2025, China showcased the Liaoyuan-1 laser weapon, intended for close-range missile and drone interception using radio and infrared sensors and an aperture claimed double that of the U.S. HELIOS system.
- U.S. experts told The War Zone that secretive Chinese programs challenge intelligence collection and that fielding counters will require significant funds and time, while analysts stress resourcing intelligence to separate hype from real threats.
- China's carrier buildup now appears set to accelerate an Indo-Pacific arms race as the Fujian carrier was reported operational on November 10, 2025, advancing Beijing's four-carrier fleet ambition with lasers and drones.
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China relies on mini aircraft carriers for drons to support or replace traditional aircraft carriers and strengthen its naval strategy with Uav-based tactics and remote attacks
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources21
Leaning Left1Leaning Right4Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
C 50%
R 40%
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