China's Type 004 aircraft carrier construction nears completion in Dalian

New satellite images show a more completed bow section and a hull approximately 320 meters long at the shipyard in Dalian, China. Open-source data suggests this is likely China's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, with two reactor protective structures visible on the images. The vessel will be significantly larger and more powerful than the 'Fujian', with a displacement of around 110–120 thousand tons and a length comparable to or exceeding that of the US 'Gerald R. Ford'-class carriers. It is expected to have four catapults (compared to three on the 'Fujian') and an air wing of over 90 aircraft, including J-35, J-15T, KJ-600, helicopters, and drones. The launch is possible as early as 2027, with commissioning expected around 2030.