China has unveiled plans for a space-based aircraft carrier that could carry unmanned fighter jets capable of launching missiles from the edge of the Earth's atmosphere, the Telegraph newspaper reported.
State media has released a concept video of the futuristic "Luanyao", the world's largest warship, traveling in space above all current defense systems.
Beijing has said the aircraft carrier could enter service in 20 to 30 years. Experts are skeptical of the project, however, with some likening it to a publicity stunt designed to "inspire the Chinese public".
Resembling a spaceship from the movie "Star Wars", "Luanyao" will be a huge gray triangular aircraft carrier measuring 242 meters long and 684 meters wide. Its takeoff weight will be 120,000 tons - significantly more than any other similar ship in operation today.
According to state media, "Luanyao" will be designed to carry up to 88 Xuan Nu unmanned fighter jets. They will be highly maneuverable stealth aircraft capable of launching hypersonic missiles, but will be significantly heavier than drones.
If completed, the new spacecraft will be "outclassed by almost everyone," according to Peter Leighton, a defense expert and research fellow at Australia's Griffith Asia Institute.
It will be able to fly above surface-to-air missiles and other fighter jets, he said, adding that it will not be affected by weather conditions and will be out of range of most defense systems.
"Lunnyao" could allow Beijing to position it directly over targets and launch missiles at them, the "Telegraph" notes. Such capabilities would give China a significant advantage, including over Taiwan and in the South China Sea, which could be the scene of a future war against the United States.
"Lunniao" is part of China's broader "Nantianmen" project, which translates as Southern Heaven's Gate.
Developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China, the project encompasses a number of ambitious plans to expand the country's air and space capabilities.
One of the most important elements is a sixth-generation fighter, known as the "Beidi" fighter, which will also be able to operate in near space. A model of the aircraft was shown at the China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in 2024.