Zhang Xiaogang Photo:Ministry of Defense

When asked to confirm foreign media reports claiming that China's fourth aircraft carrier, also the first nuclear-powered one, is under construction at Dalian Shipyard, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang told the Global Times at a regular press conference on Thursday that he was not aware of the specific situation. 

He emphasized that China's aircraft carrier development is always conducted in accordance with national security needs and the progress of equipment technology.

Global Times