China has formally commissioned the Fujian, its most advanced domestically built aircraft carrier, a move that amplifies Beijing’s naval ambitions and sparks fresh debate in Washington and Tokyo over power projection, carrier technology and how the U.S. should respond. The ship’s size, electromagnetic catapult system and potential to operate heavier fighters mark a step toward a true blue-water navy even as analysts note limits compared with the U.S. carrier fleet. American leaders and allies are weighing how to deter expansion while debating the best technology and strategy to keep maritime dominance. The news has also reawakened contentious arguments over electromagnetic catapults versus steam systems and what that means for future U.S. carriers.
The Fujian is China’s third carrier and the first one it claims to have designed and built at home, a clear signal of Beijing’s desire to reduce reliance on foreign systems and expand its reach. At roughly 80,000 tons and fitted with electromagnetic catapults, it can launch heavier aircraft and potentially host stealthy designs like the J-35. That capability increases range and strike options compared with the Liaoning and Shandong, and it reflects a broader push to make the People’s Liberation Army Navy operate farther from Chinese shores.
From a Republican perspective, the Fujian’s commissioning should be a wake-up call: we must match deterrence with clarity of purpose and strength at sea. The United States still fields more carriers and benefits from nuclear propulsion that delivers longer endurance and proven operational experience. But technology matters, doctrine matters, and leadership matters—Washington should keep investing in reliable systems and robust training so that presence equals deterrence.
The Fujian also revives an old technical fight over catapult systems that has political overtones. President Trump criticized the newer electromagnetic system in blunt terms, saying, “They’re spending billions to build stupid electric. And the problem is, when it breaks, you have to send it up to MIT…. The steam — you can fix it with a hammer and a blowtorch. And it works just as well, if not better,” Trump said. He followed that up with a second, equally direct line: “When we build aircraft carriers, it’s steam for the catapults, and it’s hydraulic for the elevators. We’ll never have a problem.”
Those comments cut to the heart of risk tolerance in defense procurement: do you chase bleeding-edge systems that promise capabilities at higher cost and complexity, or do you favor rugged, maintainable gear that crews can sustain under pressure? The electromagnetic approach offers smoother launches and the ability to throw heavier aircraft, but critics argue it adds fragile layers that complicate operations in wartime conditions.
Tokyo has reacted with understandable concern. Senior Japanese officials warned that the Fujian underlines Beijing’s rapid military strengthening and its interest in extending naval and air operations farther offshore. One official said the launch showed Beijing is “extensively and rapidly strengthening its military power without transparency.” Japanese leaders have vowed to “calmly but decisively respond” to any threats, signaling a regional push to boost capabilities and coordination with allies.
Washington maintains a regular carrier presence in the western Pacific and conducts freedom-of-navigation operations to push back against coercive territorial claims. Officials in the U.S. defense apparatus have been explicit about the stakes, noting that “China’s military buildup sends a signal to all that Beijing intends to use military force to alter the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.” That assessment underlines why allies and partners are increasing defense cooperation and why carriers remain central to deterrence.
Despite the rhetoric and risk, there are also lines of communication being kept open. Recent talks between senior U.S. and Chinese defense officials produced an agreement to establish military-to-military channels intended to reduce miscalculation at sea. After one meeting, Secretary Pete Hegseth posted: “We have more meetings on that coming soon. God bless both China and the USA!” Even with firm language and posture, practical safeguards matter when ships and aircraft operate close to contested areas.
The Fujian’s entry into service will not immediately displace U.S. maritime dominance, but it changes the math for planners and policymakers who must now factor in a more capable PLA Navy. The right response should blend strong forward presence, investment in resilient systems and closer ties with allies to deter aggression while keeping dangerous escalation under control.
Darnell Thompkins is a conservative opinion writer from Atlanta, GA, known for his insightful commentary on politics, culture, and community issues. With a passion for championing traditional values and personal responsibility, Darnell brings a thoughtful Southern perspective to the national conversation. His writing aims to inspire meaningful dialogue and advocate for policies that strengthen families and empower individuals.