Powering the Fleet: China 50MW Gas Turbine CGT50 Development for Next-Gen Warships

They're shaking off dependencies to power the future of naval warfare. China is currently working on a formidable 50-megawatt (MW) gas turbine designed to propel its next generation of warships and critical infrastructure. According to a report by Economic Daily on Monday, Jan 19, 2026, the state-owned China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) is leading the development of this advanced power generation unit.

The Strategic Impact of China 50MW Gas Turbine CGT50 Development

The CGT50 gas turbine isn't just a piece of machinery; it's a cornerstone of Beijing's strategy to establish a self-reliant supply chain. Advanced gas turbines have long been featured on Washington's list of critical technologies subject to export controls due to national security concerns. By developing the CGT50 in-house, China aims to bypass these restrictions for its future aircraft carriers and destroyers.

Beyond the military, the unit has significant civilian potential. It can serve as a mechanical drive for industrial facilities or provide essential power to peaking power plants during high-demand periods, showcasing a dual-use technological leap.

A Rapid Progression in Power Generation

The announcement follows a series of successful launches by the 703rd Research Institute under CSSC. Liu Bingbing, a leading scientist at the institute, described the latest progress as a major milestone for China's industrial base.