The Chinese naval build up continues with the launch of Sichuan amphibious assault ship, the lead ship of the Type 076 class, displacing 40,000 tons and

China has launched its first next-generation amphibious assault ship, adding a powerful cutting-edge warship to the country’s fast-expanding navy as it races to rival the military power of the United States.

China's new amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan, has an electromagnetic catapult system that makes it essentially a light aircraft carrier.

Analysts say the new amphibious assault ship and two seemingly new stealth fighter jets reflect Beijing's efforts to close the arms race gap with the United States