China's Fujian Aircraft Carrier Nears Service, Signaling a Three-Carrier Era

Tuesday marked the third anniversary of the launch of the Fujian, China's first aircraft carrier equipped with electromagnetic catapults. Official reports indicate that China is on the verge of entering a three-aircraft-carrier era, with the Fujian anticipated to become operational by 2025.

Following its launch on June 17, 2022, the Fujian conducted its initial sea trial from May 1 to 8, 2024. Since then, the vessel has undergone numerous sea trials, accumulating over 100 days of testing at sea.

Military affairs commentator Wei Dongxu stated that the aircraft carrier Fujian has shown consistent progress in its sea trials and is expected to be commissioned within the current year.

The Fujian, with a full displacement exceeding 80,000 tons, is the world's first conventionally powered aircraft carrier to incorporate electromagnetic catapult technologies. It is designed to accommodate a diverse range of carrier-borne aircraft, including fighter jets, early warning aircraft, anti-submarine aircraft, and drones.

China's third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, joins the Liaoning, commissioned in September 2012, and the Shandong, China's second and domestically built carrier, which entered service in December 2019. Both the Liaoning and Shandong utilize ski-jump ramps for aircraft takeoff.

Military affairs expert Fu Qianshao noted that the Fujian's advanced technologies, such as electromagnetic catapults, and its integration of new aircraft like the J-35 stealth fighter jet, may necessitate a more extended testing period compared to the Liaoning and Shandong. However, Fu expressed confidence that the Fujian is likely to enter service in 2025.

Wei Dongxu emphasized that China's expanding fleet of aircraft carriers, coupled with their enhanced capabilities, contributes to peace and stability.

Wei further explained that, in contrast to the Western naval system, which relies on military alliances for joint maritime operations, China's strengthened carrier force provides strategic balance. This enhances self-defense capabilities while promoting greater peace.