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China's Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carrier Project
Analysis of satellite imagery and documents reveals China's development of a land-based prototype nuclear reactor for a large warship, likely an aircraft carrier, raising concerns about the shifting global naval power balance.
English
United States
TechnologyMilitaryChinaGeopoliticsMilitary TechnologyIndo PacificPowerNaval
China National Nuclear CorporationNuclear Power Institute Of China701 InstituteChina Ship Research And Design CenterU.s. Navy
Tong ZhaoJeffrey LewisJamie WithorneSarah LadermanMatthew FunaioleNick ChildsYuan HuazhiXi Jinping
- How does the development impact U.S. - China relations?
- The development is causing growing concern among U.S. military officials, who see it as part of China's rapid naval modernization and increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, challenging the current balance of power.
- What is China currently developing in terms of naval technology?
- China is developing a prototype nuclear reactor for a large surface warship, likely an aircraft carrier, at a facility called Base 909 in Sichuan province.
- What evidence supports the claim of a nuclear reactor development for a warship?
- The project, known as the Longwei or Dragon Might Project, involves a pressurized water reactor consistent with naval propulsion. This is confirmed by satellite imagery, public documents and procurement records.
- What is the estimated timeframe for the completion of a Chinese nuclear-powered carrier?
- While the exact timeline is unclear, experts believe the construction of this reactor is a significant step toward China commissioning a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. This would significantly increase its naval range and operational capabilities.
- What would be the geopolitical implications of China possessing a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier?
- The development of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier would place China among a small group of nations with such technology and would significantly boost its global naval power and prestige.