China s third aircraft carrier, Fujian, has embarked on its maiden trials, signaling the country s naval expansion to challenge the US. With a focus on testing propulsion and electrical systems, the trials are expected to last two years before the carrier joins the fleet in five years. Fujian is the largest and most advanced Chinese aircraft carrier, equipped with the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) for smoother, more efficient aircraft launches. China s naval modernization is seen as a strategic move to assert dominance in the Indo-Pacific region.