After a long period since its launch in December 2024, new images have been released indicating that the new Type 076 Amphibious Assault Ship of the Chinese Navy is reportedly preparing to finally begin its initial sea trials, showing, among other things, that the cover of the catapult system with which it is equipped has already been removed and a new radar system installed. It is notable that these new photographs were published just days before the Fujian aircraft carrier was observed during its own sea trials with its embarked air wing, as well as on the eve of an important holiday in China for National Day.
Specifically, we are referring to the ship Sichuan, considered by the Chinese Navy as an important asset in its future drone deployment strategies thanks to the incorporation of the aforementioned electromagnetic catapult system, which makes it one of the most advanced ships of its class. According to Chinese analysts in various reports for local media, it would be key for the first waves of a potential attack on Taiwan in case Beijing opts to carry out the desired reunification using force.
In more detail, the vessel was designed with a deck approximately 260 meters long and a beam of 43 meters, making it larger than the current U.S. America-class and Japanese Izumo-class ships, the largest vessels of similar purpose in each of these countries. Its large size also translates into the capacity to carry up to 1,000 marines, as well as more internal hangar space to store drones and a larger deck to operate them more comfortably. It also incorporates an arresting system, based on that installed on the Fujian aircraft carrier, which will also facilitate the recovery of deployed units.
Directly related to this, initial local reports indicate that the institution’s plans envision the ship operating with a significant fleet of new GJ-11 drones, also known as Sharp Sword. These are modern unmanned systems notable for their capacity to deploy precision-guided munitions, decoys, and electronic warfare systems. Additionally, it was previously observed that near the Sichuan there were also mock-ups of various types of helicopters, including the Z-9, Z-18, Z-20, and Ka-28/31 models, of Chinese and Russian origin.
Moreover, the ship features a floodable well deck at its rear, indicating the capacity to deploy and recover a wide range of smaller boats, allowing it to operate not only as a platform for aerial drones. In terms of armament, it was also observed that its design includes defensive systems to increase its battlefield survivability, with its main strength being the HQ-10 missile launch stations; two located on the stern and one on the forward island. In sum, the presence of Type 1130 CIWS systems on both sides of the ship, as well as decoy launch systems, was noted.
*Images used for illustrative purposes
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