(Ecns.cn)--"In general, the captain of an aircraft carrier is chosen from highly qualified pilots that are able to operate a plane as well as a naval vessel," Rear Admiral Yang Yi, former director of the Institute for Strategic Studies at the National Defense University of People's Liberation Army, told Chinanews.com on August 1.
Public discussions were aroused after the news was released by the Ministry of Defense that China is currently refitting a disposed aircraft carrier for scientific research and training purposes. The focus of discussions has been especially laid on candidates for the captain position.
During take-off and landing, the carrier should be driven against the wind. It is extremely demanding for wingmanship and coordination capacities, said Yang.
The cultivation of a proper captain and skilled pilots has been going on for several years. Though, it will take longer to foster combat capacities at an expert level.
"A captain should be well qualified in terms of commanding and coordinating skills within a wide range of tasks. Psychological calmness is a must even in tough and tensioned situations. The captain is of great importance and assistance to the general commander."
The captain's responsibility does not include other fighting platforms. "In a real aircraft carrier, a flight company is also fully equipped at the captain level in developed countries in most cases."
With rich experiences in studying European and American aircraft carriers, the naval officer explained that an aircraft carrier is usually the main target on sea. It is relatively vulnerable in missile or torpedo attacks.
The vulnerability of an aircraft carrier could only be made up for under the protection of an aircraft carrier combat group, such as missile destroyers, missile-cruisers, and offensive nuclear submarines.
"The commander of the group will stay in the carrier, usually a rear admiral. Headquarters will be set up to take the general command duties, over the carrier, escort vessels, surface ships, as well as other platforms," said Yang.
