What's happened
China's PLA Navy has successfully conducted electromagnetic catapult launches of its new Fujian aircraft carrier, including stealth fighters J-15T and J-35, and the KJ-600 early warning aircraft. These tests mark a significant step in China's naval aviation capabilities, positioning it as a major competitor to the US in the Indo-Pacific.
What's behind the headline?
China's successful electromagnetic catapult launches of J-15T, J-35, and KJ-600 from the Fujian carrier demonstrate a rapid technological leap in naval aviation. This development signifies China's intent to challenge US naval dominance in the Indo-Pacific, especially by extending its strike and reconnaissance range. The deployment of carrier-based stealth fighters and early warning aircraft enhances China's ability to conduct complex, coordinated operations at sea, potentially altering regional power dynamics. The tests also indicate that China is closing the gap in carrier aviation, with electromagnetic systems offering faster, more flexible launches compared to traditional ski-jump or steam catapult systems. This progress will likely accelerate regional arms races and provoke strategic recalculations among US allies and partners. The deployment of such advanced carriers and aircraft will influence future military planning, with China positioning itself as a formidable naval power capable of sustained, multi-dimensional operations.
What the papers say
The South China Morning Post reports that the Chinese navy's recent electromagnetic catapult tests on the Fujian carrier include the J-15T, J-35 stealth fighter, and KJ-600 early warning aircraft, marking a significant technological milestone. The article emphasizes that China is now the second country after the US to operate carrier-based stealth fighters with electromagnetic launch systems. Business Insider highlights that the J-35's launch from the Fujian signifies China's rapid advancement in carrier aviation, with the aircraft being the second carrier-based stealth fighter globally. Both sources underscore the importance of electromagnetic catapults in extending operational range and increasing strike capabilities. Meanwhile, CCTV footage and official Chinese reports confirm the successful launches and the carrier's progress toward operational deployment, signaling China's intent to enhance its naval reach and challenge US dominance in the region.
How we got here
China's development of the Fujian aircraft carrier, launched in 2022, represents a major upgrade in its naval power. Equipped with electromagnetic catapults, it can launch a variety of advanced aircraft, including stealth fighters and early warning planes. The carrier's trials and tests reflect China's focus on expanding its naval reach and technological sophistication, especially in the context of regional tensions over Taiwan and strategic competition with the US.
Go deeper
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China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.