China’s third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, returned from its second sea trial on the 11th of this month. Observing the disclosed information, the Fujian performed sharp turns, zigzag maneuvers, and even reversing at sea during its second trial, showcasing its high maneuverability.
According to mainland Chinese media outlet Observer Network, on the morning of June 11th, the Fujian returned to the dock at Jiangnan Shipyard after completing its second sea trial, which lasted more than 20 days. The report’s analysis pointed out that the number of specific tasks carried out was undoubtedly more than during the first trial. Additionally, satellite photos revealed that during the second trial, the Fujian performed maneuvers such as sharp turns, zigzag maneuvers, and even reversing at sea.
The report’s analysis noted that the Fujian’s second sea trial was much more composed than the first one, showcasing its high maneuverability to the fullest extent.
Furthermore, the choice of location for this sea trial in the northern part of the Yellow Sea was strategic. The report analyzed that in addition to the relatively enclosed waters of the northern Yellow Sea making it difficult for reconnaissance aircraft from the US, Japan, and South Korea to observe the Fujian’s trial, the proximity to China’s naval aviation training base on the shores of the Bohai Sea was another reason for this location choice. Similar to the Liaoning, which completed its first carrier-based aircraft landing in the same waters, choosing the northern Yellow Sea again helps the crew become familiar with the local hydrographic and meteorological conditions.
As for why carrier-based aircraft take-off and landing exercises were not conducted during this trial, the report suggested that such exercises might occur during the third sea trial.