“The country needs to keep developing until it is at the same level as the United States” (Image: GETTY )
Currently China has only one aircraft carrier in service, versus 20 for the US. Beijing is attempting to build a navy which can match the US according to experts. According to former Chinese naval officer Wang Yunfei the new carriers will enter service in 2035.
Mr Wang commented: “The country needs to keep developing until it is at the same level as the United States.”
The new Chinese warship will be fitted with electromagnetic aircraft catapults, which are already deployed by the US navy.
Separately, construction of China’s latest diesel powered carrier, the Type 002, is underway.
Tensions between the US and China have increased significantly in recent years, partly due to China’s claim of sovereignty over the South China sea.
This claim clashes with those of other regional powers including Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines.
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