Dalian, China: China’s fourth aircraft carrier, commonly referred to as the Type 004, could be launched as early as 2027, according to an updated satellite imagery assessment published on 27 October 2026 by the Washington-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).
The assessment, prepared by Matthew P. Funaiole, Brian Hart, Aidan Powers-Riggs and Joseph S. Bermudez Jr., said satellite imagery from October showed the vessel at a construction stage comparable to China’s third aircraft carrier, Fujian, in May 2021, approximately one year before its June 2022 launch. However, the researchers cautioned that the Type 004’s larger size and potentially more complex propulsion system could affect its construction timeline.
Latest construction and dimensions
According to CSIS, the Type 004’s hull measured approximately 322 metres in length and 46 metres in width in October 2026. The researchers said the carrier was already larger than the Fujian at a comparable construction stage, when its hull measured approximately 316 metres in length and 40 metres in width.
The latest imagery also revealed scaffolding positioned throughout the dry dock at Dalian Shipyard, indicating preparations for extending the forward flight deck, installing port and starboard weapons sponsons, and supporting the starboard-side superstructure.
Separately, defence intelligence publication Janes, analysing satellite imagery captured on 4 September 2026, estimated that the completed hull could measure between 336 and 339 metres once its bulbous bow is incorporated. This would place the vessel in the same size category as the US Navy’s Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers. The final dimensions remain unconfirmed.
CSIS assessed nuclear propulsion as “Likely”, citing satellite imagery from 4 May 2026 that showed two compartments measuring approximately 15 metres by 15 metres inside the hull. According to the researchers, the structures have characteristics associated with shielded nuclear reactor containment systems. However, they said the available evidence was insufficient to establish the propulsion arrangement with certainty.
The researchers also assessed that the carrier would use electromagnetic aircraft launch systems, similar to those aboard the Fujian. Whether it will feature three or four catapults remains uncertain. A possible fourth-catapult module previously observed near the construction site was no longer visible in October 2026 imagery.
CSIS also identified the possibility of a third aircraft elevator, potentially improving aircraft movement between the hangar and flight deck. However, the available satellite imagery does not yet establish the number or final positioning of the elevators.
China has not publicly confirmed the Type 004’s propulsion system, final dimensions, displacement or commissioning schedule. At a Ministry of National Defense press conference on 29 January 2026, spokesperson Jiang Bin was asked about progress on the fourth aircraft carrier. He responded, “I am not aware of the specific issue you mentioned,” adding that “China advances the development of aircraft carriers according to the needs of national security and equipment development.”
CSIS said the vessel would still require extensive fitting-out work and sea trials after launch before entering operational service. Consequently, a possible 2027 launch should not be interpreted as an expected commissioning date.
