China has released new footage highlighting tests aboard its Type 076 amphibious assault ship Sichuan, including the vessel’s first publicly disclosed live-fire launch of countermeasures and an electromagnetic catapult test using a dead load.
The Sichuan features a new propulsion system and an electromagnetic catapult designed to support future unmanned operations at sea, marking a step toward expanding China’s naval aviation capabilities beyond traditional carrier-based platforms.
Military observers noted that the dead load test represents an early-stage evaluation carried out before full aircraft launch trials, helping validate the performance and reliability of the electromagnetic launch system.
Operational readiness with electromagnetic catapult trial
The successful completion of the electromagnetic catapult test during the construction phase of the Type 076 amphibious assault ship suggests that the system has reached an operational and reliable stage, according to military observers.
The vessel has already completed multiple sea trials, fueling expectations that it could soon enter service. Observers also anticipate the future release of footage showing the ship conducting launches of actual carrier-based aircraft, which would provide further insight into its capabilities, Global Times reported.
Chinese military affairs expert Song Zhongping said the Type 076 amphibious assault ship marks a significant technological advance, introducing new possibilities for naval operations. Speaking to the Global Times on Saturday, he noted that the vessel addresses the challenge of deploying carrier-based aircraft from amphibious assault ships while also driving innovation in future maritime operational concepts.
The Type 076 combines technologies developed for China’s Type 075 amphibious assault ship and Type 003 aircraft carrier, bringing together existing systems to create a more advanced naval platform. According to Song, the integration of these technologies improvaes the ship’s overall capabilities and demonstrates China’s progress in electromagnetic catapult systems and related technologies.
Enabling longer-range drone missions with heavier payloads
The electromagnetic catapult system aboard the Type 076 is expected to expand the range of aircraft the ship can deploy, supporting both manned fighter jets and larger unmanned aircraft. According to Song, the technology could allow drones to operate with heavier payloads and greater endurance, enabling them to carry additional equipment or weapons for longer-range missions.
Launched in December 2024, the Sichuan began its first sea trials in November 2025, according to Xinhua News Agency. The vessel has a full-load displacement of more than 40,000 tons and features a twin-island superstructure, a full-length flight deck, and newly integrated electromagnetic catapult and arrestor systems.
These technologies are designed to improve aircraft launch and recovery capabilities while expanding the operational flexibility of the ship. Furthermore, the vessel is designed as a multi-role naval platform capable of supporting a range of operations, including the deployment of fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment.
Chinese media note that the ship has successfully completed multiple rounds of sea trials, allowing engineers and naval crews to evaluate its systems, performance, and operational readiness ahead of its expected commissioning.