China’s Naval Expansion: A Year of Significant Warship Commissions
In 2025, the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) made substantial advancements by commissioning over 18 new warships, marking a pivotal year in its naval capabilities. The highlight of this expansion was the commissioning of the aircraft carrier ‘Fujian’ (Type 003) on November 5, 2025, at Sanya Naval Base, Hainan Island. This event was attended by Chairman Xi Jinping, underscoring the importance of the occasion. The ‘Fujian’ measures over 300 meters in length and has an estimated displacement of 80,000 tonnes, making it the largest aircraft carrier in the PLAN’s fleet. Notably, it is the first Chinese carrier equipped with an electromagnetic aircraft launch system, enhancing its operational capabilities.
Prior to its commissioning, the ‘Fujian’ successfully conducted a series of launches and arrested landings with various aircraft, including the Shenyang J-15T fighter and the new Xian KJ-600 airborne early warning aircraft. Analysts suggest that a larger, nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, designated Type 004, is currently under construction, indicating China’s ongoing commitment to expanding its naval power.
New Amphibious Assault Ships and Submarine Developments
In addition to the aircraft carrier, China launched its first new-generation Type 076 amphibious assault ship, named ‘Sichuan,’ which began sea trials shortly after the ‘Fujian’s’ commissioning. The ‘Sichuan’ measures 252 meters in length and weighs 45,000 tonnes, positioning it among the largest amphibious assault ships globally. It features stern access for hovercraft and amphibious vehicles, along with a flight deck equipped with side-mounted elevators for efficient aircraft handling.
The PLAN also focused on enhancing its amphibious capabilities with the commissioning of the Type 075 landing helicopter dock, ‘Hubei,’ on August 1, 2025. This addition brings the total number of Type 075 vessels in service to four. Furthermore, the PLAN’s surface combatants saw significant growth, with seven Type 052D destroyers and two Type 054AG frigates entering service. The commissioning of the first Type 054B frigate, ‘Luohe,’ on January 22, 2025, marked another milestone in the PLAN’s surface fleet expansion.
Submarine capabilities are also a priority for the PLAN, with the commissioning of a Type 093B nuclear-powered attack submarine in April 2025. This submarine represents a significant advancement in underwater warfare, equipped with a vertical launch system capable of deploying various cruise missiles, including the advanced YJ-21 hypersonic missile. Additionally, it is estimated that three Type 039C diesel-electric submarines with air-independent propulsion were commissioned in 2025, further bolstering China’s underwater fleet.
China Launches Construction of First Nuclear Aircraft Carrier
Future Prospects for the PLAN
The PLAN’s expansion is expected to continue into 2026 and beyond, with no signs of slowing down in naval construction. The commissioning of various support vessels, including the Type 920 hospital ship ‘Silk Road Ark,’ which embarked on its maiden voyage in 2025, reflects the PLAN’s commitment to enhancing its operational support capabilities. As China continues to develop new classes of submarines and surface vessels, the global naval landscape is likely to witness significant changes in the coming years. The PLAN’s rapid modernization and expansion efforts underscore its strategic objectives and growing influence in regional and global maritime affairs.
