SOURCE: AFI
China appears to be accelerating its efforts to develop a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, as suggested by a report in the South China Morning Post. The report highlights progress on a prototype nuclear reactor, which has reignited global interest in Beijing’s ambitions to bolster its naval capabilities and project power far beyond its immediate region.
Unlike conventionally powered aircraft carriers, nuclear-powered carriers boast significant strategic advantages. Their ability to operate for extended periods without refueling allows for greater operational range, increased endurance, and the capacity to carry more fuel and weapons for their embarked aircraft. These attributes make them a critical asset for sustained global naval operations.
In contrast, India is moving forward with plans to build a third indigenous aircraft carrier. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh announced in May that the Indian Navy’s proposal for constructing another carrier of a similar size to the INS Vikrant is under active consideration.
The third carrier, if approved, would likely mirror the 45,000-tonne design of the INS Vikrant, continuing India’s preference for conventionally powered vessels with ski-jump ramps.
While India’s plans focus on conventionally powered carriers, the nuclear-powered option has been a topic of discussion. A nuclear carrier would provide the Indian Navy with enhanced range and endurance, critical for blue-water operations in the Indian Ocean and beyond. However, challenges such as costs, technological hurdles, and infrastructure requirements have delayed such ambitions.
China’s pursuit of a nuclear-powered carrier adds urgency to the Indian Navy’s modernization. As Beijing enhances its capabilities, New Delhi must assess how its carrier fleet fits into the broader strategy for regional dominance and maritime security.
China’s progress towards a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier underscores its intent to project global naval power, challenging existing maritime dynamics. India’s plans for a third carrier reflect its commitment to bolstering its naval capabilities, but the growing technological gap between conventional and nuclear-powered carriers calls for strategic foresight.