Type 076 Sichuan: China’s First Amphibious Assault Ship with EM Catapults

China’s Type 076 Sichuan Begins Sea Trials with Carrier-Grade Launch Technology
China has taken a decisive step in next-generation naval warfare as the Type 076 amphibious assault ship “Sichuan” began its maiden sea trials. The platform represents a major technological leap, blending the capabilities of an amphibious assault ship and a light aircraft carrier —making it one of the most advanced vessels ever fielded by the PLA Navy.

A New Phase in China’s Naval Expansion

The Sichuan (Hull 51) departed from Hudong–Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai for its initial sea trials after extensive harbour testing. Engineers are assessing its propulsion efficiency, electrical load management and large-capacity power systems essential for electromagnetic launch operations.
The sea trial follows China’s rapid modernisation push, coming close on the heels of the carrier Fujian , which also uses catapult launch technology.

Unprecedented Technological Upgrades

The Type 076 marks a significant advancement over the Type 075 class. With an estimated displacement exceeding 40,000 tonnes , and a 260m × 52m flight deck , it is larger than many global amphibious ships.
Its standout feature is the integration of electromagnetic aircraft catapults , making it the world’s first amphibious ship capable of launching fixed-wing aircraft using EMALS-type systems.
The ship features a dual-island design , expanded hangars and upgraded aviation control sections for enhanced sortie generation.

Designed for Unmanned Warfare

China intends the Type 076 to serve as a major platform for uncrewed aerial systems . Mock-ups and insignia confirm compatibility with the GJ-11 stealth strike UAV , signalling the ship’s role in drone-centric naval doctrine.
The vessel is expected to operate helicopters, UAVs and potentially short-takeoff fixed-wing aircraft, further expanding its amphibious and maritime strike utility.

Exam Facts

• Type 076 displacement: 40,000+ tonnes with a 260m × 52m flight deck.

• World’s first amphibious assault ship with electromagnetic catapults .

• Expected to deploy UAVs like the GJ-11 stealth drone .

• Sea trials began November 2025 ; launched December 2024 .

Implications for India and the Indo-Pacific

The Type 076's ability to field UAV swarms, landing craft and amphibious units makes it a versatile platform for littoral operations , including potential deployments near India’s Andaman–Nicobar region .
Its catapult-enabled aviation capabilities narrow the gap with leading carrier navies and signal China’s intent to project power deeper into the Indian Ocean Region .
For Indo-Pacific states, the arrival of the Sichuan reinforces the urgency of enhanced maritime coordination as China expands its expeditionary footprint and asserts influence across contested sea lanes.