China’s Fujian Carrier Launches J-35 — Closing the Gap with the US Navy

According to the PLAN, China’s aircraft carrier Fujian has successfully conducted electromagnetic catapult launches and arrested landings with the J-35 stealth fighter, J-15T multirole fighter, and KJ-600 airborne early warning aircraft. These trials represent a major milestone in the PLA Navy’s transition to full CATOBAR operations, allowing greater range, heavier payloads, and enhanced command-and-control at sea. The developments highlight China’s ongoing efforts to close the gap with the US Navy.