China's aircraft carrier returns from S China Sea voyage (12)

China's first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, returned to its homeport in Qingdao, north China’s Shandong province on Jan.1 after completing a series of scientific tests and training programs in the South China Sea.

The aircraft carrier underwent a comprehensive test of its combat system and conducted a formation practice during its 37-day voyage. The Liaoning's combat and power system and its seagoing capability have been further tested during the voyage. The Chinese navy dispatched aircraft, naval vessels and submarines to participate in the tests.

The Liaoning is China's only aircraft carrier in operation. It was refitted based on an unfinished carrier of the former Soviet Union. The refitted carrier was delivered to the navy on Sept. 25, 2012.