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

Just a week after commissioning its newest assault vessel, China introduced the Sichuan Type 076. This state-of-the-art ship merges features of both an aircraft carrier and an amphibious assault ship, marking a significant step in naval capabilities.

While the exact specifications have not been disclosed, the Type 076 is designed to deploy aircraft and landing craft loaded with troops, showcasing its versatility in maritime operations.

Amphibious assault ships like the Type 076 are renowned for their speed and versatility, offering greater operational flexibility compared to traditional aircraft carriers.

China’s navy has commenced sea trials for the Sichuan Type 076, further solidifying its position as the most advanced amphibious assault ship within its naval forces.

China’s navy has more ships overall, but U.S. vessels are more capable, especially aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships.

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.