China’s Fujian aircraft conducts first training exercise shortly after entering service
‘First maritime live-force training’ since November 5 commissioning comes at a time of growing tensions with Japan over Taiwan comments
State broadcaster CCTV reported that the mission marked the “first maritime live-force training” for the world’s biggest conventionally powered warship since it was commissioned to the PLA Navy on November 5.
During the training, the Fujian practised multiple catapult launches and arrested landings with its ship-based aircraft, including the stealth fighter J-35, naval fighter J-15T, electronic warfare aircraft J-15DT, and early warning and control aircraft KJ-600.
The exercise was “a regular operational activity carried out in accordance with the annual plan”, CCTV reported. It added that the aim was “to assess training outcomes and strengthen the armed forces’ ability to protect China’s sovereignty, security, and developmental interests”.
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China’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, enters service
Satellite images circulating on social media this week showed the Fujian operating in the South China Sea, with another PLA Navy carrier the Shandong also visible nearby.