Decent Commentary on China’s Liaoning Class Aircraft Carrier
China’s first aircraft carrier “Liaoning” was delivered and commissioned to the Navy of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on the morning of Sept. 25. China is the last one of the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council to have an aircraft carrier in active service.
The delivery and commissioning of Liaoning Ship marks a crucial step for China in shifting from a “land power” to a “land and sea power.” The ocean is becoming increasingly important for China along with the enhancement of national strength and overseas influence. The ocean not only serves as treasure house of resources but also connects China with the world.
The Navy of China’s PLA needs to protect 18,000 kilometers coastline, maritime trade routes and overseas interests. As the most advanced maritime operational platform, the aircraft carrier plays a deterrent role in time of peace and functions as the core of defense and offense in time of war. The commissioning of first aircraft carrier will improve the navy’s capability to fight battles and defend against maritime invasion, enrich naval warfare tactics, facilitate China’s settlement of disputes concerning maritime interests through peaceful means and promote regional peace.
Certain analysts are worried that the first aircraft carrier in service will lead to emergence of “China threat theory” and arms races, which is understandable, but unnecessary. Whether the weapon poses a threat or not mainly depends on the strategic thinking and intention of users. China has repeatedly claimed that it will never seek hegemony, engage in military expansion or arms races, or pose military threats to any other country.
The commissioning of the aircraft carrier is just a small step of China’s aircraft carrier program, which requires fully functional aircraft carrier, carrier-borne aircraft, and the well-trained crew. Besides, multiple aircraft carriers and rich experience in service are urgently needed. The first aircraft carrier in active service embodies China’s resolution to safeguard its territorial sovereignty.
As the Chinese navy has little experience in construction, training, and utilization of aircraft carrier, China should make active and pragmatic efforts to ensure full function of the aircraft carrier as soon as possible.
– Defence.Professionals