The People’s Liberation Army Navy of China announced this Monday (22) that the aircraft carrier CNS Fujian, the most advanced in the Chinese fleet, successfully conducted its first electromagnetic catapult (CATOBAR) launches.
According to an official statement, the tests included the new carrier-based stealth fighter Shenyang J-35, the catapult-compatible naval version of the J-15, and the airborne early warning aircraft Xi’an KJ-600.
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Until now, the Chinese aircraft carriers Liaoning and Shandong used the STOBAR system with a ski-jump ramp, which limits aircraft payload and range.
Fujian’s electromagnetic CATOBAR system allows fighters to take off with greater weight, more fuel, and armaments, bringing the Chinese Navy’s capabilities closer to those of U.S. aircraft carriers.
Military authorities described the achievement as a milestone for the country’s naval aviation, indicating that the Fujian has reached its initial full deck capability.
Source and images: China Navy | Instagram @chinanavyofficial. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
