China's new aircraft carrier enters service in key move to modernise fleet

China's third aircraft carrier Fujian carrying out sea trials at sea in an unknown location. - AFP

BEIJING: China's third aircraft carrier entered service this week, state media said on Friday (Nov 7), marking a key milestone in President Xi Jinping's drive to modernise the military.

The Fujian joins China's fleet as Beijing projects its maritime power against the United States and others in the region, with flashpoints including territorial disputes in the South China Sea and persisting claims over Taiwan.