China's newly launched amphibious assault ship leaves dockyard

China's first domestically developed and built Type 076 amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan, left the dockyard in Shanghai on Sunday morning.

Named after southwest China's Sichuan Province, the new vessel was put into the water at a launch and naming ceremony on Friday. It was given the hull number 51.

The ship has a full-load displacement of over 40,000 tonnes and features a dual-island superstructure along with a full-length flight deck.

It incorporates innovative electromagnetic catapult and arrestor technologies, enabling it to carry fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and amphibious equipment.

As the new-generation amphibious assault ship of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy, it plays a key role in advancing the Navy's transformation and enhancing its combat capabilities in the far seas, according to Navy officers.

Leaving the dockyard also means that the main construction of the ship has been completed, and it will now enter the next phase of outfitting and equipment commissioning.

China's newly launched amphibious assault ship leaves dockyard

China's newly launched amphibious assault ship leaves dockyard

China's newly launched amphibious assault ship leaves dockyard

A grand flag-raising ceremony was held at the Tian'anmen Square on Wednesday to mark the first day of 2025, with large crowds of people watching the solemn and dignified moment for the country on the spot.

As soldiers on the Tian'anmen Rostrum blew bugles, members of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Guard of Honor began marching toward the square, escorting a giant five-star red flag.

The ceremony unfolds as a patriotic gathering, with visitors braving the cold winter morning. They've waited hours to share this moment of national pride, in the hope of extending their wishes for the 12-months ahead.

As the sun slowly rises above the horizon, the military band began playing the Chinese national anthem, and the giant red flag was hoisted to the top of the mast.

When the red flag reached the top of the mast, the crowd at the square erupted in applause and cheers.

The band played "Ode to the Motherland". White doves, symbolizing hope for peace, were released at the ceremony.

The flag-raising ceremony is a daily routine at the Tian'anmen Square.

New Year flag-raising ceremony held at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing