China’s Type 004 Aircraft Carrier Takes Shape at Dalian Shipyard

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The People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) fourth aircraft carrier, provisionally designated Type 004, is continuing to take shape at the Dalian shipyard, where fresh satellite imagery has revealed major progress in hull construction. The vessel has been under construction since at least 2024 and represents the next stage in the development of the country’s naval aviation. It could also introduce an unprecedented capability for the Asian giant’s navy: nuclear propulsion.

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The latest images, captured on 21 August, show a bow that is considerably more complete than in earlier records. Estimates drawn from satellite imagery place the hull at roughly 320 metres long with a beam of 46 metres, although these measurements could still increase as construction progresses and the structure above the waterline is finished.

Type 004 and the prospect of nuclear propulsion

Its nuclear propulsion system is undoubtedly among the most debated aspects so far. Images gathered across the various construction stages reveal at least two structures whose features are consistent with compartments intended to house nuclear reactors, a layout with broad similarities to that used aboard US nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. Nevertheless, China has yet to officially confirm that the Type 004 will be nuclear-powered.

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CATOBAR configuration and electromagnetic catapults

Regarding its configuration, all indications suggest that the new aircraft carrier will follow the trailblazing Fujian. Rather than using the ski-jump launch system fitted to Liaoning and Shandong, it is expected to adopt a catapult-assisted take-off but arrested recovery (CATOBAR) arrangement. It is also anticipated to feature electromagnetic catapults, known as the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), a technology already installed on Fujian.

Carrier air wing development

Finally, development of the future fourth aircraft carrier is also closely connected to the evolution of its embarked air component. The People’s Liberation Army Navy is currently working with a new generation of aircraft designed to operate from its carriers, including the J-35 stealth fighter, the J-15 family of carrier-based fighters, and the KJ-600 airborne early warning and control aircraft. These platforms may be supplemented by electronic warfare variants, helicopters and unmanned aerial systems adapted for naval operations.

Illustrative images.