China’s first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, the CNS Sichuan, has successfully concluded its maiden sea trial, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s naval advancements. The vessel, which is the largest and most advanced of its kind in China, returned to the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding yard in Shanghai on Sunday afternoon after a three-day voyage. During the trial, engineers meticulously tested and verified the ship’s electric, propulsion, and other critical systems, achieving the desired results. Further tests are planned as part of the ship’s construction blueprint. The Sichuan, with a hull code of 51, displaces over 40,000 metric tons and is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, making it the first Chinese amphibious assault ship capable of deploying fixed-wing drones. This technology, previously seen only on the CNS Fujian aircraft carrier, underscores China’s growing prowess in naval innovation. Once commissioned, the Sichuan will support a range of operations, including amphibious landings, airstrikes, and airborne missions. The PLA Navy currently operates four Type 075 amphibious assault ships, each with a full displacement of nearly 40,000 tons, built at the same Shanghai shipyard.