🚢 Big news from the high seas! The Chinese mainland's aircraft carrier Fujian has just set a new record by successfully launching and recovering three types of jets with its electromagnetic catapult system. Talk about leveling up! ✨
On Monday, the Chinese Navy confirmed that the J-15T, J-35 and the new KongJing-600 completed their maiden electromagnetic catapult-assisted takeoffs and arrested landings aboard Fujian. This milestone proves that China’s first home-grown, catapult-equipped carrier can now launch and recover aircraft with cutting-edge electromagnetic technology.
These jets first grabbed global attention during China’s epic military parade on September 3, celebrating the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Now, they’ve proven they’ve got what it takes at sea!
According to the navy, the training sessions also confirmed that China’s fully domestically developed electromagnetic catapult and arresting systems work smoothly with different aircraft types. In other words, Fujian has earned its “full-deck operational capability” badge—clearing the runway (literally) for a squadron of diverse planes to join the carrier group.
In recent years, the Chinese Navy’s carrier-based aviation has leaped forward: from a single jet to a full system, from shore runs to deck ops, and from ski-jump ramps to catapult launches. By moving from “can fly” to “can fight,” the navy is steering steadily toward becoming a world-class force at sea. 🌊💪
Since its maiden sea trials in May 2024, Fujian has been busy sailing through tests, equipment checks and stability assessments. And with this catapult success, it’s clear that the ship is ready to make waves—literally and figuratively! 🌟
Reference(s):
Three aircraft types catapult-tested on China's Fujian carrier
cgtn.com
