DefenseXi Jinping commissions China’s Fujian carrier, first to feature catapult launch system and stealth aircraft
China has commissioned the Fujian, its first domestically designed and built aircraft carrier, in a ceremony at a naval base on Hainan Island. The ship becomes the third carrier in service with the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN).
Beijing’s two earlier carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong, are based on Soviet-era designs and use a ski-jump ramp to launch aircraft, a system that limits both payload and range.
The Fujian replaces that arrangement with electromagnetic catapults (EMALS), similar to those used by the U.S. Navy, allowing heavier and more capable aircraft to operate from its deck. Only the United States and France currently field catapult-equipped carriers.
Launched in June 2022 at the Jiangnan shipyard near Shanghai, the Fujian has since undergone extensive harbor and sea trials.
Recent tests included the first launches of the carrier’s three new aircraft types: the KJ-600 airborne early warning aircraft, the J-15T catapult-capable fighter, and the stealth J-35. The vessel can also operate helicopters and unmanned aircraft.
Although conventionally powered, the Fujian represents a major step toward China’s stated goal of building a blue-water navy. Work is already underway on the next-generation Type 004 carrier, expected to feature nuclear propulsion and greater endurance.
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