As of April 25, 2026, rumors are swirling regarding China's latest aircraft carrier, which is reportedly under construction at the Dalian Shipyard. The Type 004 is anticipated to be the country's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, signifying an ambitious step forward in naval technology and capabilities.

In a recent promotional video released by the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) on its 77th anniversary, speculation about the Type 004's nuclear capabilities intensified. The video features a character named He Jian, whose name cleverly alludes to "nuclear ship" in Mandarin. While the Chinese government has not officially confirmed details about the carrier, satellite imagery reveals substantial ongoing construction work, suggesting that the vessel will rival America's Ford-class carriers in both size and power.

This carrier is expected to have a displacement of approximately 110,000 to 120,000 tons and could operate more than 100 aircraft, surpassing the typical air wing of the U.S. Navy's carriers. Analysts indicate that the Type 004 will be equipped with advanced features such as electromagnetic catapults, enabling the launching of sophisticated aircraft like the J-35 stealth fighters and KJ-600 early warning aircraft.

The push towards a nuclear-powered carrier aligns with China’s broader strategy to enhance its maritime capabilities amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. China's military modernization emphasizes the need for a "blue-water navy" capable of deep-sea operations, which would allow for sustained military presence and power projection far from its shores.

Current estimates indicate that China aims to expand its fleet to nine aircraft carriers by 2035, indicating a commitment to increasing its power on the global stage. With three conventionally powered carriers already in service, the addition of a nuclear supercarrier marks a decisive shift in operational capacity and strategy, reinforcing China's intent to assert its maritime interests amid geopolitical rivalries.

The operationalization of the Type 004 will put pressure on regional powers, including the U.S. and India, to respond in kind, particularly as tensions continue to rise in contested waters like the South China Sea and around Taiwan.