News Reporter
- Carrier reaches initial full-deck operational capability
- China’s carrier aviation development accelerating rapidly
- Fujian undergoing ongoing sea trial assessments
BEIJING, China: The Chinese Navy has confirmed that its aircraft carrier Fujian successfully carried out the inaugural electromagnetic catapult launches and arrested landings with three types of carrier-based aircraft – the J-15T, J-35, and KongJing-600.
The achievement marks a significant milestone, as it demonstrates that China’s first domestically built aircraft carrier, equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, is now capable of both launching and recovering aircraft using this advanced technology, CGTN news reported.
Three types of carrier-based aircraft, including J-15T, J-35 and KJ-600, completed catapult launch and landing training on board the PLANS Fujian for the first time this year, demonstrating the Fujian’s capability of electromagnetic catapult and recovery operations. pic.twitter.com/XATTs1yCtu
— ChinaNavy (@China_Navy) September 22, 2025
The three aircraft, which were showcased during China’s military parade on September 3 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, are now confirmed to be fully compatible with the Fujian’s electromagnetic launch and recovery systems, the Chinese Navy said.
Domestically-developed systems
According to the Navy, the successful training exercises confirmed the compatibility of the carrier’s domestically-developed systems with various aircraft types, signifying the Fujian’s readiness for initial full-deck operations.
This will allow a diverse range of carrier-based aircraft to operate from the vessel, enhancing its operational flexibility.
The Chinese Navy has accelerated its carrier aviation development in recent years, making strides from single-aircraft operations to integrated systems, transitioning from shore-based to shipborne platforms, and moving from ski-jump to catapult launches.
Since its first sea trials in May 2024, the Fujian has been undergoing a series of maritime tests, with ongoing equipment assessments and operational stability evaluations.
