The Covid-19 outbreak in Shanghai could delay the launch of China's third aircraft carrier, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported on Sunday, citing sources.

The vessel was scheduled for launch on the 73rd anniversary of the People's Liberation Army Navy, on April 23.

The ongoing Covid-19 outbreak in Shanghai has caused a delay in some key components of the ceremony, one SCMP source pointed out.

Another source told the newspaper that the launching ceremony could also be postponed due to organizational difficulties amid the outbreak.

Lockdown extended indefinitely due to rising infections

Shanghai's population of 25 million was put under lockdown on March 28 due to the new outbreak of Covid-19 cases.

Originally planned to last until April 5, the lockdown was later extended indefinitely due to the rising infections.

City's Covid-19 cases make up the majority of cases in China

On Sunday, Shanghai confirmed 24,820 new cases of Covid-19.

It is noteworthy that the city's Covid-19 cases make up the majority of cases in China.

The Chinese authorities in Shanghai reported Saturday a record number of symptomatic Covid-19 cases, as several other Chinese regions strengthened control with an aim to limit the Omicron variant.