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Chinese brass says aircraft carrier possible by 2010
China could build its first aircraft carrier by 2010 if current research and development proceeds smoothly, a Hong Kong newspaper quoted a Chinese general as saying on Wednesday. The Beijing-funded Wen Wei Po newspaper identified the source as a "zhong jiang," meaning lieutenant general or vice admiral, depending on the service, and a member of the military delegation at a parliament session in Beijing. It did not give further details.Experts say China's military has been researching carriers for years as a way to protect its interests offshore, but there has been no formal admission of a program to build one. China has been modernizing its military with an emphasis on naval and air power to strengthen its hand with regard to Taiwan and too also better protect its economic interests such as shipping lanes in the South China Sea. Beijing says its military is only for defense, but the rapid upgrade of its capabilities in recent years has worried some in the region. I almost believe them. A real navy is essential for a nation dependent on foreign trade. Right now, the USN has them by the short and curlies. Posted by: gromky 2007-03-07 |
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