First Chinese-made carrier launched

China has moved closer toward its goal of operating domestically made aircraft carriers as it officially launched its first on Wednesday morning in Dalian, Liaoning province.

The ship is the largest and most sophisticated surface vessel China has ever built.

General Fan Changlong, vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission, took part in the launch ceremony at a shipyard in the northeastern coastal city. Fan's presence indicates the significance Chinese leaders attach to the colossal ship, because only the most important equipment for the People's Liberation Army would have top-level officers at the public debut ceremony.