BEIJING - It is "normal and necessary" to conduct sea trials for China's aircraft carrier, a Ministry of Defense spokesman said Thursday.

Spokesman Yang Yujun made the remark at a monthly press briefing when asked about ongoing tests for the carrier.

Recent media reports stated that the carrier underwent its seventh sea trial on May 23, marking the third trial held in May.

Yang said the carrier has undergone several tests since August 2011, adding that a series of further tests will be carried out as planned.

Yang did not comment on media reports stating that the carrier will be deployed for service soon.