Some Ukrainian netizens pointed out that in the recently released footage of aircraft operations on the Fujian, multiple J-35 stealth fighters were frequently seen on the deck and completed catapult takeoffs, but none carried real or training munitions, with their fuselages clean as if newly manufactured. They then began to question whether the actual combat capability of the Fujian might be questionable if even basic weapon mounting tests have not been conducted.
In fact, he doesn't understand from an engineering logic perspective. Weapon integration for carrier-based aircraft is not simply "attaching them." It involves complex electromagnetic compatibility testing, verification of pylon structural strength, and coordination and calibration of fire control systems with the carrier's data link, among other aspects. For example, it took nearly six years for the F-35C to go from its first carrier takeoff to achieving initial operational capability (IOC).
The generation of a carrier's combat capability is a systematic project. The absence of missiles on the J-35 does not necessarily mean it cannot carry them; this may be due to confidentiality, safety, or restrictions during the testing phase. Is there any difficulty in carrying missiles? If the Shandong and Liaoning carriers can carry them, why can't the Fujian? That's just a joke.
In the publicly released footage, all catapult takeoffs of the Fujian were in a "light load" or "clean configuration" state (i.e., no external loads, minimal fuel), which aligns with the conventional process for a new carrier's initial testing: "first fly, then strike." However, a bunch of Ukrainian netizens really thought it couldn't carry weapons, which is truly laughable.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1848369821457482/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.