China conducted the first tests of its Type 076 Sichuan amphibious assault ship. It was laid down only in 2023, meaning it was built and sent for its first sea trials in just two years — an impressive achievement considering its size.
According to various sources, its length is estimated at 252–260 meters, and its width is estimated at 45 to 52 meters. Its displacement is approximately 45 to 50 thousand tons. This was reported by Naval News.
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For comparison, the world's largest America-class amphibious assault ships, operated by the U.S. Navy, have a displacement of 45,000 tons, a length of 257 meters, and a beam of 32 meters.
This means that the Chinese Sichuan is the largest, or one of the largest ships in the world in this class. It even surpasses the French Charles de Gaulle nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in terms of displacement, which is about 42,000 tons.
Regarding the capabilities of the Chinese Sichuan, it features an internal dock amidships that can accommodate around a thousand marines, along with various equipment, boats, and other assets. The exact capabilities have not yet been announced. In addition to the internal dock, it features a flight deck, which on most other ships of this class is used only for helicopters and vertical take-off aircraft.
However, China equipped the deck with an electromagnetic catapult, similar to those used on aircraft carriers, and installed special cables for landing. Thus, in addition to accommodating helicopters, it will be capable of launching carrier-based aircraft and drones, significantly enhancing its combat capabilities.
It will likely be equipped with GJ-21 jet-powered stealth drones and GJ-2 drones, but these are unlikely to be the only ones on board. It is also possible that it will be equipped with unmanned helicopters, which were spotted at the parade in Beijing.
From Defense Express we would like to note that Sichuan will be a serious reinforcement for the Chinese fleet. It is a multifunctional amphibious assault ship, which, in addition to landing troops, will be able to support them with heavy drones, fighter jets, and helicopters from its deck.
Despite the short time between its laying and first sea trials, the later stages of preparing the ship for full operational readiness and commissioning are likely to take longer. Therefore, its entry into service can probably be expected closer to 2027.
China continues to rapidly expand its fleet, and a few weeks ago commissioned its third aircraft carrier. Plans are already underway for two more ships, including a nuclear-powered vessel that could rank among the world's largest.
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