China launches world’s largest amphibious assault warship

The new assault ship has technology that can launch fighter jets off its deck and have them land back on board. China has been trying to modernize its naval forces for a decade now.China launched a new amphibious assault ship capable of launching fighter jets on Friday seeking to strengthen its combat power in the sea.

The launch took place with a ceremony at the Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai. The Sichuan -- the first of its 076-type model -- is China's largest combat ship yet. It is designed to launch ground troops for combat and provide air support for the troops.

The vessel is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult that allows fighter jets to launch directly off its deck, state news agency Xinhua reported. It also has an "arrestor technology" so that fighter jets can land on its deck.