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A rare view of the carrier’s bulbous bow. Photo: China Central Television screen grab
People’s Liberation Army technicians and seamen monitor equipment inside a power chamber & on the bridge. Photo: China Central Television screen grab
It’s believed that the maiden voyage was primarily meant to test the carrier’s conventional oil-fueled steam turbine power plant and other communication, navigation and steering systems.
The new flattop will cast off for more sea trials in the coming months as the Chinese navy expects to receive it by the end of the year for installation of weapons and air complement.
State media have played down the first sailing of the carrier on May 13, just one year and two weeks after it was launched.