China has launched its first amphibious assault ship, marking a significant enhancement of its naval capabilities.

The Type 076 dual-use assault ship, named Sichuan after a southwestern province, was unveiled at the Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai on December 28.

The advanced vessel is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult and has a full-load displacement exceeding 40,000 tons.

The Sichuan features a dual-island superstructure and a full-length flight deck, allowing it to carry a diverse array of military assets, including fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment.

State media outlet Xinhua News reports that the ship’s design boosts its operational capabilities, particularly in conducting aircraft operations and amphibious missions.

The launch of the Sichuan follows the recent unveiling of China’s first icebreaker, Tan Suo San Hao, which is intended for scientific and archaeological research, further expanding China’s deep-sea exploration capabilities.

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Such developments are part of China’s broader initiative to modernise its military.

Reports indicated that China has completed its first sixth-generation stealth fighter jet, which was spotted flying over Chengdu city, signifying a major advancement in the nation’s aerial combat capabilities.