China has embarked on sea trials for its most sophisticated amphibious assault ship to date.

Just a week following the launch of its latest assault ship, China introduced the Sichuan Type 076. This vessel uniquely blends the features of an aircraft carrier with those of an amphibious assault ship.

While specific details about its capabilities remain under wraps, the Sichuan Type 076 is equipped to deploy both aircraft and landing crafts carrying troops.

Amphibious assault ships are generally known for their speed and superior operational versatility compared to traditional aircraft carriers.

China’s navy recently initiated sea trials for the new Type 076 Sichuan, marking it as the most advanced amphibious assault ship within their naval forces.

Although the Chinese navy boasts a larger number of ships in total, U.S. vessels, particularly aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships, are recognized for their superior capabilities.

Xi Jinping is pushing to expand China’s military by 2035 to challenge the U.S. as the dominant military power.

The Center for Strategic and International Studies reports China’s defense budget rose to nearly $247 billion in 2025, with its progress most visible in its navy.

China’s nuclear stockpile hit 600 warheads by 2025 with the goal to expand to 1,500 by 2035, according to the report.

The Type 076 Sichuan combines features of an aircraft carrier and amphibious ship, signaling China’s growing naval reach. (Zhang Liang/Xinhua via AP)

The Sichuan emphasizes amphibious and air-launch capabilities, not nuclear or missile propulsion systems. Unlike China’s conventionally powered aircraft carrier Fujian, the new amphibious assault ship is designed for drone and marine operations rather than traditional carrier strike missions.

Both Chinese ships have the same electromagnetic catapult system that has already been tested successfully on the Fujian.

China’s latest amphibious ship, capable of launching drones and aircraft, begins sea trials to test power and stability. (Zhang Liang/Xinhua via AP)

The electromagnetic system can launch fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and drones, as well as short- and vertical-takeoff aircraft (STOVL and VTOL), according to official Chinese media.

The Sichuan has a full-load displacement of more than 40,000 tons and a full-length flight deck. 

The sea trial is set to test the ship’s power and stability, as well as its systems, according to Chinese media.