Representing a radical evolution in naval warfare, the Type 076 Sichuan (NATO: Yulan Class) is China’s newest and most ambitious amphibious assault ship. While it features the well deck of a traditional landing helicopter dock (LHD) to launch marines and hovercraft, its flight deck tells a different story. Launched in December 2024 and having just completed its maiden sea trials in November 2025, the Sichuan is the world’s first amphibious ship equipped with an Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and arresting gear. This technology, shared with the supercarrier Fujian, allows the 45,000-ton vessel to operate as a dedicated drone carrier, launching heavy, fixed-wing unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) like the stealthy GJ-11 Sharp Sword. As it continues its evaluation phase in late 2025, the Sichuan stands as a unique "hybrid" platform, bridging the gap between an amphibious landing ship and a light aircraft carrier to project high-tech air power across the Pacific.

Learn more about the Yulan Class and 54 other vessels in service with the China's People's Liberation Army in our China's People's Liberation Army Edition of Ship Recognition Playing Cards deck!