China's most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has entered service days after a grand commissioning ceremony overseen by Chinese leader Xi Jinping, state media reported.
The Fujian, the country's third aircraft carrier, is equipped with electromagnetic catapults that will allow planes to be launched at higher speeds.
This entry into active duty marks a significant step forward for Beijing, as it now possesses the world's largest navy in terms of sheer ship numbers.
Under Xi's leadership, China has been rapidly expanding its navy, exerting pressure on the United States and its allies to enhance their naval capabilities.
The Fujian can launch three different types of aircraft with its electromagnetic catapult and flat flight deck, which enables the carrier to support planes carrying heavier weapons and fuel loads for longer-range strikes, thereby demonstrating enhanced power over the previous two carriers, the Liaoning and the Shandong.
State media have hailed the Fujian as a major milestone in the development of China's naval forces.
With the commissioning of the Fujian, China joins the United States as the only other nation to operate an aircraft carrier equipped with the same electromagnetic catapult system.
The commissioning ceremony took place in southern Hainan province, where Xi toured the ship and learned about its sea performance. Reports indicated that Xi had made the decision to adopt this advanced technology.
During the ceremony, Xi spoke to sailors lined up on the flight deck, who saluted and chanted in unison: Follow the party's command, fight to win, and uphold fine conduct!
