China's first aircraft carrier to go for trials in high seas

China's first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, would be deployed on preliminary trial on the high seas this year before acquiring full combat capability within two years time.

The 990ft Liaoning, named after the province where it was refitted, is likely to have its preliminary trial on the high seas this year, a necessary step before it possesses full combat capability, said ship commander-in-chief Zhang Yongyi.

"Before every aircraft carrier truly matures and becomes capable of fighting in a war, it must go through trials on the high seas," Zhang, who is also a deputy to the legislature the National People's Congress, told China Central Television.

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