Chinese Navy: Successful Flights on Aircraft Carrier Fujian

The Chinese Navy continues to strengthen its position as a leading maritime force in the Asia-Pacific region. Recent training flights of carrier-based aircraft on the Fujian aircraft carrier represent a significant demonstration of operational readiness and technological advancement. Over 120 successful take-offs and 115 precise landings were recorded during these exercises, including J-15 fighter jets and training aircraft. The use of the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) enhanced both efficiency and safety of carrier operations.

These exercises underline China’s strategic objective of enhancing its naval aviation capabilities and expanding control over key maritime regions.

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Training Flights on the Fujian Aircraft Carrier

Key Training Data

Parameter	Value
Successful take-offs	120+
Precise landings	115
Aircraft types	J-15, training aircraft
Launch system	EMALS electromagnetic catapult
Simultaneous aircraft capacity	Up to 40
Carrier speed	Up to 31 knots
Displacement	80,000 tons
Flight deck length	315 meters

Exercises included coordinated operations of multiple aircraft types, take-off and landing drills under constrained deck conditions, and simulation of diverse weather scenarios.

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Advanced Technology on Fujian

The Fujian aircraft carrier is equipped with EMALS, allowing aircraft to take off with reduced stress on engines and airframes. Benefits include:

• Take-off speeds up to 300 km/h, reducing deployment time;
• 35–40% less wear and tear on aircraft, increasing longevity;
• 25–30% higher operational efficiency, enabling faster combat readiness.

This technology positions China’s naval aviation on par with modern global standards for aircraft carriers.

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Significance for the Chinese Naval Forces

Training on the Fujian carrier enhances:

1. Crew readiness for carrier operations;
2. Efficiency of carrier-aircraft coordination;
3. Strategic control over critical maritime regions;
4. Demonstration of technological advancement to neighboring countries and potential adversaries.

Analysts predict that by 2030, China could operate over 150 carrier-based aircraft, significantly boosting the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s power projection capabilities.

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International Context

The Fujian exercises also carry geopolitical implications. They signal China’s growing naval power and readiness to safeguard strategic interests in the Asia-Pacific region. Key points include:

• Demonstration of advanced naval aviation technology;
• Increased ability to protect economic and strategic maritime assets;
• Enhanced regional naval presence and influence.

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Statistics and Facts

• 120+ successful take-offs and 115 precise landings;
• Simultaneous deck capacity: up to 40 aircraft;
• EMALS-assisted take-off speed: up to 300 km/h;
• Reduced aircraft wear: up to 40% less;
• Carrier maximum speed: 31 knots.

These figures highlight the advanced operational capability and technological sophistication of the Chinese Navy.

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EMALS Efficiency Chart

EMALS Efficiency (%)
100 ┤█████████████████
 90 ┤███████████████
 80 ┤████████████
 70 ┤████████
 60 ┤██████
 50 ┤████

Approximate efficiency improvement of electromagnetic catapults compared to traditional steam systems.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What types of aircraft were used on the Fujian carrier?
J-15 fighter jets and training aircraft.

2. What is the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS)?
A modern launch system that allows aircraft to take off faster and more safely while reducing wear on the equipment.

3. How many aircraft can Fujian operate simultaneously?
Up to 40 aircraft.

4. How do these exercises impact China’s naval power?
They enhance crew readiness, strengthen control over strategic maritime regions, and showcase technological advancement.

5. When were the latest training exercises conducted?
In 2025, with over 120 successful take-offs and 115 landings.