Move is mostly symbolic but still 'a milestone'
(NEWSER) - In a highly symbolic move, China today began carrying out sea trials for its first aircraft carrier. The 300-meter-long vessel sounded its horn three times before heading out to sea around the port of Dalian, where it has spent the decade since it was purchased from Ukraine being refurbished, according to reports from the state-run news agency. The trials are expected to be short, though no exact duration was given; the Wall Street Journal notes that vessels are barred from entering a nearby area until Sunday. Though China is far off from having a fully operational carrier group, this is "a milestone for them," an expert tells the New York Times . More»
