Last week, a video of a mysterious Chinese ship similar to an “aircraft carrier” was posted online. Now high-quality photos have been presented that give a better idea of the vessel.
First of all, experts drew attention to the fact that the ship received three superstructures at once, while one or two can usually be seen on aircraft carriers. Why did the Chinese choose such a scheme – unknown.
Moreover, the ship's affiliation remains unknown. Immediately after the video was published, experts suggested that it might not be a warship at all, since there were no markings on it that would indicate its affiliation with the Chinese navy.
At the same time, one of the photos shows an emblem indicating that the ship belongs to the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC).
It is possible that the “aircraft carrier” is an experimental or research vessel. Most likely, helicopters or drones could be based on it. No signs of catapults that would launch heavier manned aircraft were seen.
Interestingly, the smokestacks are led to a third “island”, which was placed at the stern. Also in one of the photos you can see a lift, which is apparently used to lift aircraft to the deck.