Fujian Aircraft Carrier Tests J-15T Fighter Jet, Signaling Progress Towards Commissioning

A trailer for an official media program, released on July 30, 2025, showcased a J-15T carrier-borne fighter jet. The footage depicted the jet casting a shadow on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier Fujian. The exact date and location of the event were not disclosed.

The trailer showed a J-15T fighter jet prepared for takeoff on the Fujian's flight deck. An order was given, "Position 2, clear for takeoff," according to the report. While the launch itself wasn't shown, a subsequent clip displayed a J-15T in the air, casting a shadow over the carrier.

According to Chinese military affairs expert Fu Qianshao, this represents a significant milestone for the Fujian. He suggested that carrier-aircraft integration tests were likely already underway during previous sea trials. These trials are crucial for verifying the Fujian's electromagnetic catapult and arresting technology, which, while tested on land, must also be proven at sea.

Fu explained that various aircraft types, including heavy and medium fighter jets, early warning aircraft, and even light trainer jets, would need to undergo testing before the Fujian's official commissioning. The electromagnetic catapult and arresting technology allows the carrier to accommodate aircraft of varying weights.

Military affairs commentator Wei Dongxu noted the Fujian's steady progress in sea trials, with commissioning expected this year. The Fujian, China's first aircraft carrier equipped with electromagnetic catapults and arresting devices, has a displacement exceeding 80,000 tons. It was launched on June 17, 2022, and began its first sea trial on May 1, 2024. The carrier has since completed numerous sea trials, accumulating over 100 days at sea.

The trailer, part of a documentary program on the development of the Chinese military, also featured other advanced weaponry, including a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, the DF-17 hypersonic missile, robot dogs, and aerial drones.