BEIJING -- China reportedly plans to launch its third aircraft carrier as early as this month, allowing Beijing to maintain a constant military presence in the East and South China seas and erode U.S. clout in the region.
Advanced catapult and new strategic options propel Beijing's maritime ambitions

China's new Type 003 aircraft carrier is seen under construction at Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai. Its launch has been delayed by the city's COVID-19 lockdown. © CSIS/High Resolution/Maxar Technologies
BEIJING -- China reportedly plans to launch its third aircraft carrier as early as this month, allowing Beijing to maintain a constant military presence in the East and South China seas and erode U.S. clout in the region.