Satellite imagery shows China close to launching major new aircraft carrier

The People’s Republic of China is reportedly on the verge of completing and launching its latest aircraft carrier, a further sign of China’s aggressive push for dominance in both territory and global influence. 

Satellite images analyzed by the Associated Press show a nearly completed Type 003 carrier, China’s next-generation aircraft transport vessel. The country began construction of the craft in 2018. 

The ship will reportedly approach the size of the 100,000-ton U.S. supercarriers. Chinese officials have said it will use electromagnetic launching technology as opposed to older steam-based catapults. 

Chinese officials have not revealed any immediate plans to launch the ship, though the state-run Global Times this week reported that it “could be launched soon."