But overseas analysts have been more tempered, suggesting that there is still a big gap between the naval force of the People’s Liberation Army and the United States in terms of the number of carriers, combat systems, personnel proficiency and operational experience.

It will be based at naval facilities in the southern city of Sanya, from where the PLA oversees operations in the South China Sea, the first and second island chains and into the Pacific.

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China’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, enters service

China’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, enters service

Navy spokesman Leng Guowei said on Saturday that the decision to base the carrier in Sanya took into account “factors such as combat readiness needs, port conditions, support capabilities and mission characteristics”.