Xinhua/Li Gang via Getty Images
A CCTV video of the massive vessel and its technologies suggests it is ready for the next stage of its development, a source close to the Chinese navy said.
Shandong has already conducted nine sea trails, but they were all in Bohai Bay or the South China Sea, which are relatively close to its home base, a military expert said.
The release of a new state media video of China s Shandong aircraft carrier suggests the giant vessel might soon be heading out on the high seas as it continues its preparations to become combat-ready, according to a military insider.
CHINA / MILITARY By Global Times Published: Feb 09, 2021 06:03 PM
Haixun 06. Photo: screenshot of CSIC s 701 Institute s website
A patrol ship in the Taiwan Straits, developed by the China Shipbuilding Industry Corp (CSIC), held its launching ceremony on Monday, and will become China s largest maritime patrol rescue vessel in the Straits after it is commissioned.
The Taiwan Straits is a high-risk area for water traffic accidents in China, and is also a key supervised sea area identified by China s Ministry of Transport. The large patrol rescue ship s presence in the Straits can help safeguard the nation s territorial sea sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.