China’s 1st aircraft carrier ends maiden voyage

BEIJING: Chinese state media say the country’s first aircraft carrier has successfully completed tests and training programs on its maiden voyage.

The Liaoning returned to port Wednesday after a 37-day voyage in the South China Sea.

The official Xinhua News Agency says the aircraft carrier tested its combat system and conducted a formation practice and "attained the anticipated objectives."

In early December, a US Navy ship was involved in a near collision with a Chinese ship which a Chinese media report said was down to the US ship getting too close to the Liaoning. It marked the two countries´ most serious sea confrontation in years.

The Liaoning was bought from Ukraine more than a decade ago and extensively refurbished before entering service last year. (AP)