China’s third aircraft carrier, Fujian, has reached a critical milestone in its journey toward full operational status. Chinese state media on Wednesday released footage showing carrier-aircraft integration trials between the Fujian and the J-15T carrier-borne fighter jet, an essential step before the vessel’s official commissioning.
The newly surfaced visuals, part of a trailer for a military documentary set to air on August 1, the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), were broadcast. The trailer features several high-end military assets, including nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, DF-17 hypersonic missiles, robotic dogs, and aerial drones. Notably, it highlights the electromagnetic-assisted aircraft launch system aboard the Fujian, showcasing a J-15T fighter ready for takeoff from the carrier’s deck.
Though the actual launch was not shown, a subsequent clip confirmed the J-15T in flight over the vessel, indicating that electromagnetic catapult testing is already underway at sea.
Military experts described the trials as a pivotal step in validating the carrier’s electromagnetic catapult and arresting gear under real maritime conditions, even though both systems had previously undergone land-based tests. According to defence analyst Fu Qianshao, a range of aircraft types, from early warning planes to light trainer jets, will need to complete flight integration trials before the Fujian is officially inducted.
Commentator Wei Dongxu also confirmed steady progress in the carrier’s development. The Fujian, China’s first carrier to feature electromagnetic launch technology, was launched in June 2022 and began sea trials in May 2024. It has since accumulated over 100 days at sea during multiple trial phases.
With a full displacement of over 80,000 tons, the vessel is expected to significantly enhance China’s naval air power and may officially enter service later this year.
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