Sichuan Type 076 drone-carrier starts sea trials

China's new Type 076 'drone-carrier' amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan, is sailing through the South China Sea for routine cross-regional sea trials. With a full-load displacement of over 40,000 tons, it features a dual-island superstructure and a full-length flight deck. The vessel innovatively adopts electromagnetic catapult and arrestment technologies, enabling it to carry fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment. Chinese authorities state the exercise is part of the overall construction plan and not aimed at any specific target.