What You Need to Know: New satellite imagery confirms China's development of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier reactor, a major leap in the PRC’s naval modernization. The reactor, built at "Base 909" in Leshan, signifies Beijing’s goal of joining the exclusive group of nations—currently only the U.S. and France—that operate nuclear carriers capable of extended, global operations.

-The PLAN's nuclear ambitions are clear as they expand their fleet with advanced carriers like the Type 003 Fujian.

-With six carriers planned, China’s bid for “blue water” capability represents an escalating challenge to U.S. maritime dominance amid growing Sino-American tensions.

For years, Western analysts have grown increasingly concerned over China’s desire to field its own nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Based on recent satellite imagery provided to The Associated Press, these fears may soon become reality.

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has constructed a land-based prototype nuclear reactor for a large surface warship.

The Middlebury Institute of International Studies was the first organization to confirm........

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