China fast-tracks 40,000-ton drone carrier after second sea trial

China is rapidly advancing the deployment of its Type 076 amphibious assault ship, known as the Sichuan, which is considered the world’s first true “drone carrier.” The vessel recently completed its second sea trial just two weeks after its initial test, signaling accelerated progress toward commissioning, potentially by the end of 2026. The Type 076, with a full-load displacement exceeding 40,000 tons, features a dual-island design and a full-length flight deck, making it larger than China’s existing Type 075 amphibious ships. It is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system similar to that on China’s newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, enabling faster and more frequent launches of aircraft, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The ship is expected to operate a variety of aircraft, including J-35 stealth fighters, KJ-600 airborne early-warning planes, helicopters, landing craft, and notably, the GJ-11 stealth unmanned combat air vehicle (UC