Official announcements from the Chinese government or credible defense analysis reports

China Develops Land-Based Prototype Nuclear Reactor for Future Aircraft Carrier

Nov 11, 2024, 09:11 AM

China is making significant strides in nuclear propulsion technology, with satellite images and documents indicating the development of a land-based prototype nuclear reactor intended for a large Navy ship. This development is seen as a move towards producing China's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The Middlebury Institute of International Studies has analyzed satellite imagery and government documents, providing evidence of this progress. AP News also reported on this development. Currently, only the United States and France have nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, while China's latest Fujian carrier remains conventionally powered. The new nuclear propulsion project is a clear indication of China's ambitions to enhance its naval capabilities.