China’s fourth aircraft carrier may be on track for 2027 launch, US analysts say

Satellite imagery of work at China's Dalian shipyard led U.S. analysts to assess that the country's fourth aircraft carrier could be launched as early as 2027. The vessel, often referred to by observers as Type 004, is widely believed to be a candidate for nuclear propulsion, but its final configuration and schedule have not been publicly confirmed by Beijing. Researchers are examining visible construction progress to estimate how far the hull has advanced and when it might enter the water. A possible launch would begin further outfitting and trials; it would not establish that the carrier is operational in 2027.