Launched in 1972, the Kiev was once the pride of the Soviet Navy. But in need of cash, Russia and Ukraine sold it and another carrier called the Varyag to China. Although the Varyag is at sea, China has converted the Kiev into a luxury hotel:
This is the Kiev, currently anchored in the Chinese port of Tianjin. Once she was the flagship of the mighty Soviet navy’s Pacific fleet. Now she’s available for business retreats, intimate getaways or simple relaxation.
That’s because the Chinese have bought the aircraft carrier and transformed her into a floating luxury hotel.
The Kiev will stay permanently docked. Much as a Soviet-era sailor might resent the indignity, Kiev won’t go back out to sea. She’ll entertain guests and clients at anchor, a bizarre museum to a different country’s naval power.
View a slideshow of the hotel’s fancy interiors at the link.
Slideshow and News Story -via DVICE | Photo: Xinhua

HMS Invincible of the Royal Navy (UK) served Britain starting in 1980, including combat action during the Falkland Islands War. The ship was taken out of service in 2005. Her successor among the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers is currently under construction. In the meantime, you can buy this used carrier at the UK government’s property disposal auction website. Just click on “Add to Cart.”
Article Link and Auction Link via Glenn Reynolds

Ed Diment built a LEGO Minifig scale (that’s 1:40) aircraft carrier modeled after the Essex-class carrier USS Intrepid (CV-11). It will be on display at BrickCon this weekend in Seattle.
Link | Photo: Ed Diment | Previously: LEGO Aircraft Carrier in Water

in order for a plane to safely land on an aircraft carrier without racing off the end, its tailhook needs to be ‘caught’ by arresting cables attached to the carrier’s deck (see here). these cables need to be extremely strong and durable but also flexible enough so as not to stop the plane too quickly. these 5 test tracks, located at navair in lakehurst, are dedicated to testing these very systems and the emergency barricades.
See more pictures of vehicle testing facilities at deputy dog. Link
