China's Fujian Carrier Embarks on Crucial Taiwan Strait Transit for Final Tests

China's Newest Aircraft Carrier Transits Taiwan Strait for Final Tests BEIJING, CHINA - SEPTEMBER 12, 2025 - China's newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian Type 003, has transited through the Taiwan Strait as part of a research and training exercise before its entry into service, according to the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). The Fujian is bound for the South China Sea, where it will undergo testing in a routine mission that does not target any specific object or entity, said Senior Captain Leng Guowei, PLAN spokesperson. "This cross-regional test and training are an essential part of the carrier's construction process," he added. The transit through the Taiwan Strait marks a significant milestone for China's naval expansion, which has been a topic of interest in recent years. The Fujian is expected to be one of the most advanced aircraft carriers in the world, with capabilities that include electromagnetic catapults and advanced radar systems. Background and Context China's military modernization has been ongoing since 2015, with a focus on developing its naval capabilities. The PLAN has been expanding its fleet, including the construction of new aircraft carriers, submarines, and destroyers. The Fujian is part of this effort to establish China as a major maritime power. Additional Perspectives Experts say that the transit through the Taiwan Strait highlights China's growing military presence in the region. "This move demonstrates China's commitment to expanding its naval capabilities and establishing itself as a major player in the Asia-Pacific," said Dr. Ian Storey, a senior fellow at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. Current Status and Next Developments The Fujian is expected to complete its testing and training exercises in the South China Sea before returning to its homeport in China. The carrier's entry into service will mark a significant milestone for China's naval expansion, with implications for regional security and global politics. In related news, the United States has been monitoring China's military activities in the region closely, with a focus on ensuring stability and security in the Asia-Pacific. "We are aware of China's plans to deploy its new aircraft carrier and will continue to monitor the situation closely," said a US Navy spokesperson. The Fujian's transit through the Taiwan Strait is a significant development in China's naval expansion, marking a major milestone for the country's military modernization efforts. As the world watches, experts say that this move highlights the growing importance of maritime power in regional and global politics. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*