Re: PLAN LHD/LPH/LHA discussion
... The idea that the PLAN needs to "test" a new elevator design on a smaller vessel is kind of hilarious to be honest.
If you mean the elevator, most LHD has elevators as well. these are crucial mechanical components of a carrier and I think it would make a lot of sense for the PLA to test it on smaller vessels such as a LHD to prove and mature the techniques before using it on a full blown carrier. Liaoning's elevator is most likely a copy or a refurbished old Russian model, if they are to construct new/larger carriers, they will have to design from scratch.
... The idea that the PLAN needs to "test" a new elevator design on a smaller vessel is kind of hilarious to be honest.