Why China may need to take the nuclear option for its next aircraft carrier

China's newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, may necessitate a shift to nuclear power for future designs due to identified flaws. According to a military magazine, the Fujian, China's first domestically designed carrier commissioned in November, faces limitations compared to advanced US ships like the Gerald R. Ford class, which have more efficient launch systems. The Shipborne Weapons Defence Review article suggests that only nuclear power can resolve these issues in future carriers. While the Fujian can carry a diverse range of aircraft, including stealth fighters and drones, overcoming design limitations may require nuclear propulsion for subsequent Chinese aircraft carriers.

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