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Landmark launch for China’s J-35 stealth jet from Fujian aircraft carrier
In a boost to naval power, fighter takes off via vessel’s electromagnetic catapults for first time
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China’s third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has used its advanced electromagnetic catapults to launch all three types of fixed-wing aircraft developed for the vessel, passing another major test before commissioning.
Quoting the navy, state broadcaster CCTV reported on Monday that J-15T fighters, fifth-generation J-35 stealth jets and carrier-based KJ-600 early warning and control aircraft completed catapult launch and arrest landing tests on the carrier.
The J-35 is the world’s second carrier-based stealth fighter after Lockheed Martin’s F-35 series, and the tests mark the first time the aircraft has taken off from such a vessel.
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The operations also represent a leap in the power of China’s naval air wings.
“This means that the Fujian has attained electromagnetic catapult and recovery capabilities, representing another breakthrough in China’s aircraft carrier development and a milestone in the transformation of the navy,” the report said.
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The report did not say when the tests took place, but it did note that the J-35 completed the task before it was deployed in the Victory Day parade in Beijing on September 3.
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