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2w ago

China’s Fujian Carrier Launches J-35, J-15T and KJ-600 Using EMALS

Analysts call the verified EMALS launches a meaningful milestone that points to imminent commissioning, not certified combat readiness.

A J-35 prepares to be launched on the Fujian aircraft carrier. (Image credit: ‘China Navy’ on X)
In these photos provided by the Chinese navy on September 22, 2025, a KJ-600 aircraft (top) and J-15T and J-35 fighter jets (bottom left and right) take off from the aircraft carrier CNS Fujian at an undisclosed sea location.

Overview

  • Official PLAN video shows electromagnetic catapult launches and arrested recoveries of J-35, J-15T and KJ-600, with the navy declaring initial full-deck operational capability.
  • Defense experts say the J-35 sequence may represent the first publicly announced EMALS launch of a fifth‑generation stealth fighter from a carrier.
  • The footage release follows Fujian’s recent transit through the Taiwan Strait to the South China Sea for late-stage sea trials, with state media saying the launches occurred before the early‑September Victory Day parade.
  • The EMALS capability allows fully fueled, heavier aircraft such as the KJ‑600 fixed‑wing early warning platform to operate at sea, extending detection and command reach beyond China’s ski‑jump carriers.
  • Analysts assess that commissioning appears close, though sustained high‑tempo cycles, night operations and extended deployments remain necessary before a combat‑ready carrier air wing is proven.