China set to test its first aircraft carrier at sea

China could begin testing its first aircraft carrier within weeks, adding to concerns about its expanding military clout amid disputes over the resource-rich South China Sea.

Its first aircraft carrier, a retrofitted ship bought from Ukraine in 1998, is expected to be mainly used for training purposes, a state-run newspaper reported, but others are believed to be in the works.

The former Soviet carrier Varyag, once destined to become a floating casino, is now part of president Hu Jintao's push to modernise the navy.

"The Varyag is expected to serve primarily as a training vessel for pilots and deck crews," the English-language China Daily reported yesterday.

It will begin initial sea trials in the coming months.