Beijing: China's sole aircraft carrier has returned home following a far-ranging three- week training mission during which its combat capabilities were closely scrutinised and speculation soared over what future role the flat-top will play amid China's growing military ambitions.

The Defence Ministry said the 60,000-ton Liaoning sailed in to the eastern port of Qingdao on Friday along with its battle group that includes destroyers, frigates, a supply ship and anti-submarine craft.

In this video still, China's aircraft carrier Liaoning is seen during live-ammunition drills in the waters of the Bohai Sea in northern China. Credit:AP

The ministry quoted the group's commander, Rear Admiral Chen Yueqi, as saying the drill simulated real combat as closely as possible and "achieved all targets set for it".

China commissioned the carrier in 2012 and declared it combat ready in November, shortly after which it launched its first live-fire exercises.