the 60th anniversary of the People's Republic of China, the YJ-62 naval cruise missile made its first public appearance; the YJ-62 represents the next generation in naval weapons technology in the PLA. Following the construction of its two smaller aircraft carriers, China began building the improved Type 003 carrier, which is expected to displace 83,000 tonnes and enable CATOBAR operations by 2022. The PLAN may also operate from Gwadar or Seychelles for anti-piracy missions and to protect vital trade routes which may endanger China's energy security in the case of a conflict. In 2016, China established her first overseas naval base in Djibouti, which provided necessary support for Chinese fleet and troops. China has reportedly begun testing designs for arsenal ships. The Pentagon's name for the Chinese sea based militia is the People's Armed Forces Maritime Militia.Their future role is unknown, but war planners have been aware of their history and potential use in naval conflict. See also List of ships of the People's Liberation Army Navy Chinese aircraft carrier programme China Coast Guard Dalian Naval Academy People's Liberation Army Navy Band Political Commissar of the People's Liberation Army Navy Political Department of the People's Liberation Army Navy References Citations Sources External links Chinese naval aircraft in service PLAN – Chinese Defence Today 2 1950 establishments in China