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| Image by Military Computer Graphics for PLAN |
The Dragon launched its second aircraft carrier in April of 2017 but has yet to put it in service. China's first aircraft carrier was the refurbished LIAONING, a former Soviet air craft carrier. China commissioned the Liaoning in 2012. China's second carrier is the first completely domestically produced carrier in the Peoples Liberation Army's Navy (PLAN). With China's warship count exceeding most other world navies including the United States, and now with two capital air craft carriers , sophisticated submarines, and constant striving after such big navy skills as under way replenishment; one has to wonder how much longer the Dragon's Army will continue to maintain ownership claims over the Dragon's navy.
Dubbed the SHANDONG the new carrier commemorates the coastal province of China of the same name. The province of Shandong (once Shantung) has played a major historical role in Chinese commercial and industrial development. The province is also a cultural icon. It is located along the lower reaches of the Yellow River and served major roles in the development of Taoism, Chinese Buddhism, and Confucianism. Tagged appropriately 001-A the SHANDONG is configured largely as an air defense carrier.
The second carrier is undergoing her first sea trials now and these are takeing place in the Bohai and Yellow Seas. The first test will be basic tests of her power and design. Completion of sea trials and commissioning and delivery to the fleet will likely take place late in the second half of this year.
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