Xinhua/Li Gang via Getty Images
A CCTV video of the massive vessel and its technologies suggests it is ready for the next stage of its development, a source close to the Chinese navy said.
Shandong has already conducted nine sea trails, but they were all in Bohai Bay or the South China Sea, which are relatively close to its home base, a military expert said.
The release of a new state media video of China's Shandong aircraft carrier suggests the giant vessel might soon be heading out on the high seas as it continues its preparations to become combat-ready, according to a military insider.