2025, China's carrier-based aviation forces have made significant progress, with multiple key models entering the practical deployment phase, especially the third aircraft carrier of China, the first catapult-type carrier "Fujian", with its related tests and training fully launched.

"Fujian" carrier-based aircraft combat capability is formed!

China's carrier-based aircraft development has entered the third decade, from the modification of the "Liaoning" to the domestication of the "Shandong", and now to the "Fujian", the Chinese Navy has formed a complete system from aircraft carrier construction to carrier-based aircraft support. In 2025, the carrier-based aircraft configuration on the "Fujian" has become the core focus, including:

J-15T/DT: Catapult-type "Heavy Carrier Fighter"

J-15T is a catapult takeoff type carrier fighter derived from Su-33 and J-11B, which began flight testing in 2015 and started mass production after 2021. In 2024, the "Liaoning" and "Shandong" have already deployed the J-15T equipped with the fleet in joint carrier exercises.

In July 2025, the first image of J-15T catapult takeoff appeared on the "Fujian", marking the official start of the test on board. In addition, the electronic warfare version J-15DT has also appeared on the Fujian, which is a carrier-based jammer similar to the US military's F/A-18G.

J-35: Next-generation stealth carrier-based aircraft!

J-35 originates from the FC-31 export stealth fighter, redesigned with foldable wings and raised cockpit for carrier use. It has been in testing since 2021 and is now in mass production, painted with naval camouflage.

Although a model of J-35 has appeared on the "Fujian", its actual service status remains unclear. Interestingly, in 2024, a model of J-35 also appeared on the deck of the "Liaoning", indicating that it may be used for ski-jump carriers.

KJ-600: First carrier-based early warning aircraft!

KJ-600 is China's first carrier-based fixed-wing early warning aircraft, developed by Xifang Aircraft Company, adopting a layout similar to the US military's E-2 "Hawkeye", equipped with dual rotating AESA radar. It has been flying since 2021, and there are at least six prototypes in service or testing.

KJ-600 is expected to make its first public appearance on the "Fujian", or may appear in the military parade on September 3rd, the anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance against Japan.

JL-10J: Light carrier-based trainer!

JL-10 (L-15) as an advanced trainer/lightweight fighter has been used on land-based bases. Starting from 2024, the model of "JL-10J", the carrier-based version, appeared on the "Fujian", equipped with twin vertical stabilizers and a nose landing gear suitable for carrier operations, possibly possessing light attack capabilities.

Future direction: Sixth-generation carrier-based aircraft and drones!

The recently unveiled Shenyang "J-XDS" stealth fighter has not yet confirmed whether it is carrier-based, but it is expected to become a follow-up model of J-35. At the same time, China is also rapidly advancing in the field of carrier-based drones: "Loyal Wingman" similar to the US military's collaborative combat drones, may have already entered the verification stage; MQ-25 unmanned refueling/reconnaissance aircraft also shows signs of being researched.

The upgraded version of 075 - the 076-type amphibious assault ship "Sichuan", equipped with electromagnetic catapult, will serve as the first ship for unmanned fixed-wing platforms, currently preparing for sea trials.

With the Fujian approaching service and various carrier-based aircraft gradually being equipped, the Chinese Navy's aviation forces are achieving a transition from "having" to "high-quality systematic". Although there are still many unknowns, 2025 is undoubtedly the year when China's carrier-based aviation truly "takes off".​

Original text: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7535316553085092415/

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