China is advancing its naval capabilities with the construction of its fourth aircraft carrier, currently referred to as Type 004. Following the commissioning of the Liaoning and Shandong, and the anticipated entry of the FUJIAN into service, the TYPE 004 represents a significant step in Beijing's efforts to project power beyond its territorial waters.

Satellite images released in mid-February 2025 suggest that construction has begun at the Dalian shipyard in Liaoning Province, where the first two carriers were built. A modular structure resembling the front section of an angled flight deck was spotted in Xianglujiao's masonry basin. This module, visible in earlier images from May 2024 and discussed in Chinese military forums, appears to feature two converging lines that could house catapults, indicating that the TYPE 004 may be equipped with four electromagnetic catapults—two on the angled deck and two on the forward flight deck.

While these observations strongly suggest progress on TYPE 004, its exact purpose remains unclear. The module may serve as a test or demonstration segment rather than an actual part of the carrier under construction. This approach mirrors earlier phases of FUJIAN's development, where test segments were built years before full-scale assembly began. Rumours also suggest that construction could be occurring at another Dalian facility or even at Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai, where FUJIAN was constructed. Alongside the module, mock-ups of a J-15 fighter jet and a Z-8 helicopter were observed, further hinting at preparations for advanced carrier operations.

The TYPE 004 is expected to surpass its predecessors in performance and design. It will likely feature electromagnetic catapults and omit a ski-jump ramp, enabling it to deploy a sophisticated air wing including J-15 multirole fighters, next-generation J-35 stealth aircraft, KJ-600 airborne early warning planes, helicopters, and possibly navalized GJ-11 SHARP SWORD drones. There is speculation that it could use nuclear propulsion, aligning with Beijing’s ambitions for a blue-water navy. Reports suggest this capability is being developed under Project Longwei by the Nuclear Power Institute of China.

Although not explicitly mentioned in recent Pentagon reports, China’s multi-carrier strategy underscores its growing ability to operate beyond its immediate maritime periphery. The TYPE 004 program exemplifies Beijing’s commitment to expanding its carrier strike group capabilities and enhancing its global naval presence. Further developments are awaited to confirm details about this pivotal project.

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