The Chinese Navy has announced a key milestone in the development of its fleet: the latest aircraft carrier Fujian has successfully conducted the first aircraft takeoff and landing exercises using an advanced electromagnetic catapult. The tests involved new-generation fighters, including the stealth fighter J-35.
This event, described by the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) as an “important milestone”, marks China’s entry into the elite club of powers possessing such technologies. The successful tests confirm China’s emergence as a major aircraft carrier power and demonstrate its growing capabilities to project force on the high seas.
During the training, three types of aircraft were successfully launched and recovered from the aircraft carrier’s deck:
- Heavy fighter J-15T
- Stealth fighter J-35
- Airborne early warning aircraft KJ-600
The electromagnetic catapult allows the launch of heavier aircraft with greater combat loads and fuel, significantly expanding the combat capabilities of the carrier strike group.
According to experts, several key capabilities of the Fujian aircraft carrier and its air wing have reached world-class levels. In an official statement, the PLAN described this achievement as a breakthrough that contributes to the transformation and construction of a modern naval force.
