China's Liaoning aircraft carrier completes sea trials

Trial run was notable for near-collision with an American ship



The Chinese navy has completed sea trials for its first ever aircraft carrier, further evidence of expanding sea power as the country's neighbours worry about its military ambitions.

The Liaoning was bought from Ukraine in 1998 and extensively refurbished before entering service in 2012. It returned to port on Wednesday after a 37-day voyage in the South China Sea, the official Xinhua News Agency said.

Citing an unnamed naval source, Xinhua said the aircraft carrier tested its combat system and conducted a formation practice and "attained the anticipated objectives."

The source said: "All tests and training programs went well as scheduled."

In November, state media reported a Chinese-built J-15 fighter jet took off from and landed on the Liaoning.

You'll notice that there is no steam catapult system assist the planes take off and there is that jump at the end which I'm sure gives the pilots complete confidence that they won't end up as fish food shortly after take-off.