Key Facts
• On November 11, Defense Minister Koizumi addressed China’s third aircraft carrier, Fujian.
• Fujian was commissioned on November 5 in Hainan Province, South China Sea.
• The carrier is larger than its predecessors and equipped with electromagnetic catapults.
• Fujian can operate fixed-wing early warning aircraft, enhancing its carrier-based capabilities.
• A three-carrier system allows rotation for maintenance, training, and missions.
• In June, one Chinese carrier operated east of Iwo Jima, while two others were active in the Pacific.
• China’s defense budget continues to grow rapidly with limited transparency.
• Japan’s Self-Defense Forces will monitor Fujian and China’s military activities closely.
• Vigilance and surveillance in Japan’s surrounding air and sea areas remain a priority.
Summary
Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi discussed China’s third aircraft carrier, Fujian, during a press conference on November 11. Fujian, commissioned on November 5, is larger than previous carriers and features advanced electromagnetic catapults, enabling operations of fixed-wing early warning aircraft. This development enhances China’s naval capabilities, particularly in distant sea and air operations. A three-carrier system allows continuous deployment through rotation for maintenance, training, and missions. In June, Japan’s Self-Defense Forces confirmed simultaneous operations of two Chinese carriers in the Pacific and one near Iwo Jima. Koizumi emphasized concerns over China’s rapidly growing defense budget and lack of transparency. Japan will maintain vigilance and strengthen surveillance in its surrounding regions to ensure security.
