New images suggest China’s fourth aircraft carrier could launch in 2027, analysts say

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New imagery leads US researchers to assess that China's fourth aircraft carrier, believed to be its first nuclear-powered carrier, could launch as early as 2027. The development would expand China's ability to project naval and air power farther from its shores.

China’s fourth aircraft carrier, widely believed to be China’s first with a nuclear powered system, could launch as early as next year, according to US researchers, as Beijing pursues a fleet capable of projecting naval and air power far beyond its shores. A launch in 2027 would coincide with the centenary of the People’s Liberation Army, with the anniversary falling on August 1. Beijing has previously used major military anniversaries to showcase developments in its armed forces. The...