China has unveiled amphibious assault ship with jet-launching capability. The first Type 076 ship features an electromagnetic catapult enabling fighter jets to launch from its deck, according to Xinhua, reports Interesting Engineering.

The new vessel, independently developed and named after Sichuan Province in Southwest China, was launched at a ceremony and given hull number 51.

For over a decade, China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy has focused on modernizing its fleet to expand its reach beyond coastal waters and operate globally.

The Sichuan features a double island superstructure, a full-length flight deck, and advanced electromagnetic catapult and arresting technology. It can carry fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment.

The Type 076 amphibious assault ship stands out for its large displacement (a full load displacement of more than 40,000 tons), ranking among the highest globally. This allows it to carry more weapons and equipment, extend its range, and enhance its combat capabilities, according to Chinese military expert Zhang Junshe.

Zhang added that the Sichuan is the world’s first amphibious assault ship with electromagnetic launching technology, allowing it to carry both helicopters and fighter jets like the J-15.