China may be making its first nuclear aircraft carrier as images leak

Recent satellite imagery and photos suggest that China is constructing its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the Type 004, at the Dalian shipyard. This development follows the recent commissioning of the Fujian, China’s third carrier, and marks a significant advancement in Beijing’s naval capabilities. Analysts note that the Type 004’s hull includes a structure resembling a nuclear reactor containment unit, indicating nuclear propulsion rather than conventional fuel. The carrier’s design also appears to incorporate multiple electromagnetic catapults similar to those on U.S. Nimitz and Ford-class carriers, potentially allowing higher sortie rates and heavier aircraft launches. The introduction of nuclear propulsion would grant the Type 004 virtually unlimited range and greater electrical power to support advanced radar, weapons, and aircraft launch systems, narrowing the technological gap with the U.S. Navy, which currently operates 11 nuclear supercarriers. The future air wing for the Type 004 is expected to include stealth fighters like the J-35, upgraded J-15s, early