Type 076 Sichuan
The PLAN's next-generation amphibious assault ship and the world's first purpose-built drone carrier — combining a full-length flight deck, electromagnetic catapult, arresting gear, and a floodable well deck for a hybrid amphibious/UCAV strike capability.
Sichuan is a Type 076 amphibious assault ship with electromagnetic catapult and arresting technologies and provision for fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment, according to China's Ministry of National Defense.
Overview
The Type 076 Sichuan, hull number 51, is a Chinese amphibious assault ship with a full-load displacement exceeding 40,000 tonnes, twin islands, and a full-length flight deck, according to China's Ministry of National Defense. The ministry confirmed electromagnetic catapult and arresting technologies and provision for fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment, without specifying a drone-only air wing. Marine Insight reported on 31 August 2026 that Sichuan had entered final sea trials and forecast delivery by the end of the year; that forecast was not a delivery announcement. CCTV asserted on 4 October that Sichuan had achieved repeated fixed-wing drone catapult launches, but did not identify the aircraft, test date, or recovery result.
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