China is advancing toward the development of its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, signaling a major step in its bid to strengthen its naval capabilities. Satellite images and Chinese government documents have revealed a land-based prototype reactor in Leshan, Sichuan province. This reactor, part of a classified project named the Longwei, or Dragon Might Project, is tailored for naval propulsion and housed within Base 909, a site already hosting several reactors.
This development marks a critical milestone for the Chinese navy, the world’s largest by number of ships, as it seeks to expand its global reach. The introduction of nuclear-powered carriers would allow China’s navy to operate farther from its shores, rivaling the United States and France, the only nations currently equipped with such advanced carriers.
Strategic Expansion of Naval Power
China’s growing focus on developing a “blue-water” navy capable of long-range operations aligns with its broader geopolitical aspirations. Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers offer enhanced endurance and range, reducing the need for frequent refueling and increasing operational efficiency. They also provide greater capacity to house advanced systems, such as electromagnetic launch systems, cutting-edge radars, and modern weapons.
The Chinese navy’s advancements aim to shift its focus from near-sea defense to missions on distant seas. These moves underscore the nation’s intent to assert its presence in strategically significant regions like the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Technological Milestone at Leshan
The Leshan facility plays a pivotal role in China’s efforts. Procurement documents and construction activity suggest that the reactor, designed as a prototype for large surface warships, will soon become operational. Evidence includes tenders for steam generators and turbine pumps consistent with pressurized water reactors used for naval propulsion.
This reactor serves as the first tangible proof of China’s aspirations for nuclear-powered carriers. It is believed to be connected to the China Ship Research and Design Center, responsible for aircraft carrier development. The facility is also linked to the Nuclear Power Institute of China, which oversees reactor engineering and testing.
Satellite images from 2020 to 2023 reveal extensive construction at the site, including water intake infrastructure and new buildings. This progress underscores the project’s scale and significance.
China’s Aircraft Carrier Evolution
China’s carrier development has steadily progressed over the past decade. Its first carrier, the Liaoning, was a refurbished Soviet vessel, followed by the domestically built Shandong, both featuring a ski-jump launch design. The Type 003 Fujian, launched in 2022, introduced an electromagnetic launch system, bringing China closer to modern U.S. carrier designs.
However, all three carriers remain conventionally powered. While speculation surrounds the construction of a fourth carrier, experts suggest it may refine the Fujian’s design rather than adopt nuclear propulsion. Still, China’s shipbuilding industry has the capacity to simultaneously produce a conventional Type 003 and a nuclear-powered Type 004.
Geopolitical and Military Implications
The development of nuclear-powered carriers positions China to project its power deeper into the Pacific and challenge U.S. influence in the region. These carriers would extend the reach of Chinese naval operations, particularly near the First Island Chain, which includes Taiwan and other disputed territories. By reducing dependence on fuel oil, nuclear carriers allow for more space to store weapons and aircraft fuel, enhancing combat capabilities.
China’s maritime expansion is particularly relevant as tensions persist in the South China Sea and over Taiwan, which Beijing considers part of its territory. Nuclear-powered carriers would enable China to conduct sustained operations in these contested waters, reinforcing its claims and challenging the United States’ ability to intervene.
China’s Race Against U.S. Naval Dominance
While the Chinese navy has undergone rapid modernization, it still lags behind the U.S. Navy in key areas, especially in aircraft carrier capabilities. The United States operates 11 nuclear-powered carriers, ensuring its ability to maintain continuous global deployments. In contrast, China’s expanding fleet and formidable shipbuilding capabilities signal its determination to narrow this gap.
President Xi Jinping has highlighted the development of a “first-class” navy as a cornerstone of China’s broader national rejuvenation strategy. Achieving this goal hinges on advancements like nuclear-powered carriers, which would enable China to project power globally and challenge U.S. maritime dominance.
The Road Ahead
While the timeline for operational nuclear-powered carriers remains unclear, China’s continued investments in advanced naval technologies highlight its ambitions. The Leshan reactor prototype and its associated projects signal a commitment to developing a formidable maritime force capable of reshaping the balance of power in the world’s oceans.