China's first aircraft carrier commissioned

China's first aircraft carrier was delivered and commissioned to the People's Liberation Army Navy Tuesday, state-run Xinhua News Agency reported. Overseen by President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao, the carrier was officially handed over at a ceremony held at a naval base in northeast China's city of Dalian. The carrier, originally built by the former Soviet Union, underwent years of refitting efforts to install engines and weapons, as well as a year-long sea trial. The ceremony made China the 10th country around the world and the last among the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to have an aircraft carrier in active service. China's first aircraft carrier in active service will be "of great and far-reaching significance in inspiring patriotism, national spirit, and driving national defense technologies," Wen said, at the ceremony. "It will also be of great significance in enhancing national defense power and the country's comprehensive strength," Wen said. After being commissioned to the Navy, the carrier, named Liaoning, will continue to serve for scientific research purposes, as well as military training. China announced its aircraft carrier program in July 2011, when the carrier was berthed in Dalian for refitting. Dalian is located at the south end of Liaoning Province.