China's second aircraft carrier 'The Shandong' is taking formidable shape after being in construction for almost three years, according to reports in local media.

After completion, the aircraft carrier would add teeth to China's military arsenal that is likely to unravel the nerves of its neighbouring countries.         

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However, Shandong would occupy a more special place in China's military arsenal, as it is country's first indigenously manufactured aircraft carrier. The country's first aircraft carrier 'The Liaoning' was constructed by former Soviet Union.

Shandong is being constructed in China's north-eastern port city of Dalian, according to Defence Ministry.

However, the ministry has not given any fixed time-frame for completing the construction of the aircraft. The construction activities had begun in 2014.      

Earlier this month, China's Liaoning aircraft sailed through Taiwan Strait after conducting a military drill in the disputed South China Sea region. Taiwan immediately termed the move as 'provocative' and responded by dispatching its fighter jets and navy ships in the region.

The possible military face-off was avoided, since China called off its aircraft carrier soon after the self-ruled island nation dispatched its military arsenals. The face-off would have strained the already tense cross-strait relation.  

China has been constantly accused of carrying out military drills in the South China Sea region. Although Beijing claims that these drills as 'normal' and in accordance with international law, but other claimants in the region describe these drills as China's 'show off strength.'   

China stakes claim over the entire 'South China Sea' region, but several of the smaller neighbours like Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam challenge this claim.    

TagsThe Shandong Aircraft Carrier, China aircraft carrier, The Shandong, china