The release of a new image showing the Chinese carrier-based J-15T fighter taking off from the aircraft carrier Fujian with four YJ-83K anti-ship missiles marks a major advance in China’s naval aviation capabilities.
The image indicates that the new vessel, equipped with an Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), is already capable of operating aircraft carrying significantly heavier weapons loads than those seen on the fleet’s previous aircraft carriers.
Unlike the aircraft carriers Liaoning and Shandong, which use “ski-jump” ramps, Fujian allows the J-15T to take off with much more fuel and weaponry. The aircraft was specifically developed to take advantage of this new launch system, overcoming a limitation that restricted the operational capabilities of Chinese carrier-based fighters during combat missions.
In addition to its increased payload, the J-15T incorporates major improvements, such as Chinese-made WS-10H engines replacing the Russian powerplants used in earlier versions. The fighter can also carry a wide range of weapons, including longer-range anti-ship missiles, modern air-to-air missiles, and even aerial refueling equipment, increasing its flexibility across different types of missions.
The advancement is also expected to benefit other variants of the J-15 family, such as the J-15DT electronic warfare version and a possible two-seat model for training and multirole attack missions. The combination of the Fujian aircraft carrier and the J-15T therefore represents a new stage for Chinese carrier-based aviation, bringing its capabilities closer to those of the world’s leading navies operating aircraft carriers with catapult launch systems.
China’s J-15T launches from the aircraft carrier Fujian using EMALS, carrying 4× YJ-83 anti-ship missiles with SRAAMs on the wingtips.
The fighter is also believed to be capable of carrying 4× new YJ-15 supersonic anti-ship missiles, further enhancing its maritime strike… pic.twitter.com/BUgRdHCXoT
— International Defence Analysis (@Defence_IDA) July 9, 2026
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Source: The War Zone | Photos: X @Defence_IDA | Wikimedia | China Military. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
