China has launched its first domestically designed and built aircraft carrier, state media said on Wednesday, as the country seeks to transform its navy into a force capable of projecting power onto the high seas.

The possession of a native aircraft carrier places China among the few military powers with such vessels, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Russia.

But experts were quick to point out that China’s naval force still lags far behind that of the US, the world’s leading military power which has multiple carriers.

“It is highly unlikely to pose a threat to the US if you look at how advanced American aircraft carriers are,” Mr Char said.