China’s aircraft carrier program, which is driven by several strategic and technological objectives.
The reasons for building aircraft carriers include:

Projecting power and presence in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in the South China Sea where China has territorial disputes
Competing with the US’s dominant naval presence in the region
Enhancing naval capabilities through a versatile platform for conducting various military operations

Developing and testing new technologies, such as catapult systems, arresting gear, and electromagnetic launch systems
Symbolic significance as a symbol of national military power and prestige




Economic considerations, including job creation and local industry stimulation
Strategic flexibility, allowing for quick responses to changing situations

China’s first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, was commissioned in 2012, and the country is now building its second carrier, the Shandong.