The PLA Navy is interested in the technology to power warships including aircraft carriers.

[9][needs update] In late 2017, 1600-ton gantry cranes were installed in Jiangnan Shipyard, prompting speculation that the aircraft carrier would be built there.

[6] In April 2018, news.com.au, an Australian tabloid claimed that metal cutting for the Type 004 began back in December 2017.

[10] The Type 004 would likely carry a complement of J-15 and J-35 fighters, Xian KJ-600 airborne early warning and control aircraft, anti-submarine warfare aircraft of the People's Liberation Army Naval Air Force, and stealth attack drones.

[12] In addition, it does not have folding wings for compact storage, and its stealth coating would be susceptible to degradation while at sea.