Advertisement
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
Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
99+
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.
Advertisement
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.
Advertisement
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.
Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2x faster
1.25x
250 WPM
Slow
Average
Fast
1.25x