Source : The Economic Times
China’s ambitious naval expansion, exemplified by the construction of its fourth aircraft carrier, the Type 004, is poised to reshape the maritime balance of power in Asia and potentially challenge the US Navy’s dominance. According to Yuan, a key figure in the carrier’s development, there have been no delays in its construction, with illustrations suggesting the vessel is being built at Shanghai’s Jiangnan shipyard, a South China Morning Post report said.
Advanced Capabilities and Strategic Significance
Experts speculate that if powered by nuclear energy, the Type 004 could wield advanced, power-intensive weaponry and operate at sea for extended periods without the need for replenishment. This capability would enable the Chinese navy to project a more formidable presence in international waters, despite China’s limited regional military bases compared to the US’s extensive network and alliances with countries such as Australia, South Korea, and Japan.
Strategic Comparison with US Nimitz-class Carriers
The potential nuclear propulsion of the Type 004 raises its strategic profile, making it comparable to the US’s Nimitz-class carriers in terms of size and capability. Malcolm Davis of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute notes that while this development recalibrates regional power dynamics, the operational focus of Chinese carriers remains primarily on supporting joint landing operations targeting Taiwan. However, their presence will also boost China’s confidence in other regional contingencies, the SCMP report said.
Technological Advancements and Regional Impact
The Fujian, China’s third carrier, already features cutting-edge technology like electromagnetic catapults, setting a precedent for the advanced capabilities expected of the Type 004. China’s naval strategy, aiming to extend its influence beyond the second island chain and into the Indian Ocean, signifies a long-term goal to challenge US maritime supremacy.
Rising Tensions and Regional Response
Regional analysts highlight the increased tensions this expansion could cause, especially in contested areas like the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Southeast Asian nations are urged to develop countermeasures to maintain autonomy in the face of China’s growing naval power.
Global Maritime Order at a Crossroads
As China continues to modernize its fleet, adding guided-missile destroyers and amphibious assault ships capable of operating far from its shores, the global maritime order stands at a crossroads. The rise of China’s sea power, complemented by its suite of military capabilities, poses a direct challenge to the free and open Indo-Pacific vision championed by the US and its allies, the SCMP report said.
China’s construction of the Type 004 aircraft carrier, potentially powered by nuclear energy, signifies a significant step in its naval expansion. This development could reshape the maritime balance of power in Asia and challenge US naval dominance. The carrier’s advanced capabilities could enable China to project a more formidable presence in international waters, impacting regional power dynamics. However, increased tensions are expected, especially in areas like the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait, prompting Southeast Asian nations to develop countermeasures.
(With inputs from TOI)
