【Satellite Images Reveal Progress on China's First Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carrier】
Western analysts, through analysis of the latest satellite imagery, are increasingly confident that China's upcoming 004 aircraft carrier will be nuclear-powered.
According to a report by the U.S. "Newsweek" magazine, the latest satellite imagery from February 17 shows that the construction of the 004-class aircraft carrier has moved from basic hull assembly to the engine room, with features indicating the installation of a nuclear reactor.
U.S. Navy analyst Schuett said: From satellite photos, two similar reactor devices can be seen inside the ship's body, which are very similar to early construction photos of the "Ford"-class aircraft carrier, which also used two nuclear reactors. Therefore, he has high confidence that the 004 aircraft carrier will use nuclear power.
Schuett further speculated: If we make a comparison based on the construction of U.S. aircraft carriers, the construction progress of the 004 aircraft carrier has advanced by two years, but considering China's shipbuilding speed, the actual time may be even shorter.
Belgian former navy captain Lockren also reached a similar conclusion. He pointed out that between two large square openings in the hull, there is a protruding rectangular area. One is believed to be the engine room, and the other is reserved for installing the reactor containment, so this should be a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
Lockren also said that there are signs that China may have obtained turbines capable of handling higher steam pressure than those used on the Fujian aircraft carrier, which could be another indication that the 004 class will use nuclear propulsion.
Lockren believes that given China's well-known fast shipbuilding speed, new clues may be found after some time.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1858275858898948/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.