China’s first aircraft carrier is now ready to engage in combat, marking a milestone for a navy that has invested heavily in its ability to project power far from China’s shores.

The Liaoning’s political commissar said in an interview with Tuesday’s Global Times newspaper that his ship is “constantly prepared to fight against enemies,” signaling a change from its past status as a platform for testing and training.

Purchased as an incomplete hull from Ukraine more than a decade ago, it was commissioned in 2013.

Senior Captain Li Dongyou’s comments appear to indicate that the ship has taken on its full aviation complement.