[Foreign Media: China's Vehicle-Based Electromagnetic Aircraft Catapult System First Seen in Actual Operation]

According to a report by U.S. War Zone (TWZ) on June 30, 2026: We have now seen, for the first time, actual footage of China’s modular, road-mobile electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS/electromagnetic catapult) launching a drone in operation. The system consists of multiple specially designed trucks connected together. It was first revealed last year and shortly afterward was loaded onto the deck of a cargo ship. The vessel, named "Zhong Da 79," had previously been used to showcase a new family of containerized weapons, sensors, and other systems—images of which sparked widespread online discussion. It is now confirmed that this vehicle-based electromagnetic catapult is indeed part of that family.

The video showing the operational use of the mobile electromagnetic catapult first circulated widely on social media earlier today, though the exact location and timing of filming remain unclear. The footage initially appeared attached to a Chinese social media post published by the School of Mechanical Engineering at Beijing Institute of Technology. According to claims, the screenshot originated from that post, which mainly covered news regarding the development of the entire containerized weapons and systems family.

The screenshot shows a propeller-driven drone being launched from a mobile electromagnetic catapult composed of three trucks. The drone features a high-wing monoplane configuration, a V-tail, and a tricycle landing gear setup. When the system was first publicly unveiled last year, it was displayed as a four-truck configuration, paired with a stealth “collaborative combat aircraft” (CCA)-type drone—or more likely, a model of such a drone.

Subsequent footage shows the trio of electromagnetic catapult trucks traveling in formation, separating, then reconnecting. Notably, the tops of the trucks in the convoy appear to be fitted with previously unseen covers; side views reveal what look like hinges or at least large straps securing them.

The covers likely protect the system from weather damage during transport and may also serve to camouflage its true purpose—although the trucks still display other distinctive features, including highly visible locking interfaces at the front. The possibility that these covers can fold outward raises a question: could the system be configured to unfold into a wider runway? However, there is currently no evidence to support this idea.

The footage also reveals that these trucks possess extreme all-wheel steering capabilities, allowing them to make near 180-degree turns even when connected. This means that as long as there is sufficient space to maneuver the entire system, aircraft can be launched in any direction—a crucial capability for aligning the aircraft into headwinds before launch, especially in areas with limited mobility. This ability is fundamental to making the concept viable—something nearly impossible with conventional steering, let alone adapting to significant changes in wind direction.

The video concludes again with footage of the drone being launched, along with photos of the "Zhong Da 79" vessel from early this year, carrying various containerized systems (at least some of which were later confirmed to be models).

As shown earlier in this article, the image shared also included an illustrative diagram depicting the full family of containerized weapons and other combat capabilities. This includes versions equipped with ground-attack and anti-ship cruise missiles, as well as surface-to-air missile launchers; others feature a Type 1130 30mm close-in weapon system (CIWS) or two sets of Type 726 short-range defense launchers housed in containers. Additionally, there are containerized radar systems, electronic warfare systems, and command-and-control modules. The diagram specifically highlights one container carrying a single electromagnetic catapult truck, and another containing a disassembled drone—one whose design closely resembles the drone seen in the opening launch sequence.

Based on machine-translated content believed to originate from the original post by the School of Mechanical Engineering at Beijing Institute of Technology, the current target is to produce 2,000 units annually across the entire containerized system family.

The post from the School of Mechanical Engineering at Beijing Institute of Technology further states that 70 other institutions participated in the development of the systems showcased on the "Zhong Da 79," with explicitly named organizations including: China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSSC), China North Industries Group Corporation (NORINCO), China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC), China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC), and AVIC (Aircraft Industry Corporation of China).

How exactly drones are loaded onto the vehicle-based electromagnetic catapult remains unknown—and this will affect launch frequency (sortie rate). TWZ previously speculated that a cyclic operation could be established: drones would be transported by truck, one at a time, driven into position, locked into the rear end of the existing track, launched, then detached.

Overall, many aspects of this modular electromagnetic catapult system and its capabilities remain unconfirmed. But the available information reaffirms TWZ’s earlier assessment: this system opens up entirely new operational possibilities in both naval and land-based configurations. It is specifically designed for expeditionary warfare scenarios or situations where traditional runways are unavailable. As a mobile system that can be deployed on land or shipped aboard vessels, it at least enables a higher degree of rapid forward deployment of air power closer to combat zones.

The system’s mobility and proximity to supporting forces grant it extremely high responsiveness—even amid constantly shifting battlefield conditions and demands. Shorter round-trip flight distances mean longer endurance in the air, a particularly valuable advantage for small, short-range drones. Choosing electromagnetic catapults over steam catapults also implies shorter launch intervals, thereby increasing sortie rates.

Because the system comprises multiple modular, truck-mounted segments, it is easier to disperse and conceal when not in use—making it harder for adversaries to target and enhancing survivability. Storing and transporting the catapult components and associated drones inside unassuming freight containers offers additional strategic advantages.

All of these factors hold significant importance for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA)—which faces a persistent need for sustained air support and firepower in Pacific theater operations involving potential adversaries, especially in island and reef seizure/leapfrog campaigns where mature runways are scarce. Another key focus area is supporting military operations in the high-altitude, remote western border regions of India, where runway resources are similarly constrained. The vehicle-based catapult can also be integrated with other units of the containerized system family, helping establish more robust, defensive forward operating positions on land or rapidly convert any suitable-decked vessel into a multi-purpose naval platform.

Disclaimer: All equipment data and images cited here are sourced from War Zone reporting.

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Original source: toutiao.com/article/1869463228716042/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.