Amid maritime disputes, China confirms building second carrier

Jan 04, 2016 China recently confirmed that it is building a second aircraft carrier to go with an existing one, following months of speculations.

Speaking during a broadcasted news conference, Defence Ministry spokesman Yang Yujun said:

“China always adheres to the path of peaceful development, unswervingly pursues an independent foreign policy of peace and a national defense policy that is defensive in nature. We have a long coastline and vast waters under state jurisdiction. It’s the responsibility of the Chinese armed forces to safeguard China’s maritime security and maintain the sovereignty over territorial waters and maritime rights and interests,”

He also revealed that the construction was taking place in the northern port city of Dalian.

The conventionally powered carrier will have a displacement of 50,000 tonnes, and will be able to operate the Shenyang J-15 fighter.

Unlike the current 60,000-tonne Liaoning carrier, the new carrier will have a ski-jump take-off.

“The aircraft carrier is independently designed by China and is being built in Dalian. The 50,000-ton vessel will be conventionally powered and carry J-15 fighter-bombers and other aircraft. The aircraft carrier will have new improvements in various aspects based on scientific experiments and helpful experience gained from the Liaoning aircraft carrier,”