This week, new images were posted on social media revealing various models of J-15B, J-35, JL-10J, and KJ-600 aircraft on the flight deck of China’s Fujian aircraft carrier (CV-18), currently docked at the Jiangnan Shipyard. The Fujian, China’s second domestically-built aircraft carrier, completed its third sea trial at the end of last month, which lasted 25 days.
The image posted by @uhddiiiii on the Chinese social network Weibo not only shows that tests continue on the carrier to ensure the operational capability of these aircraft platforms but also reveals a new blackened paint scheme for the radar mast. This modification aims to reduce the glare emitted during daytime operations, thereby making it less detectable by rival naval forces.
In pursuit of achieving operational status, the Fujian’s crew has continued testing the carrier’s elevators and electromagnetic catapults. This is significant as the Fujian is the only aircraft carrier in China with this technology, unlike the Liaoning and Shandong which use ski-jump ramps. Having completed this extensive sea trial and noting the frequent presence of fighter and airborne early warning aircraft models on its deck, it is reasonable to assume that the vessel may begin a series of catapult trials in the coming months.
It is also worth noting that before its latest deployment, the Fujian conducted several refueling tests while docked, using a Type 901 logistics supply ship. This ship, already in service with the People’s Liberation Army Navy, features five wet cargo stations for transferring fuel and water, along with two dry cargo stations for various supplies. Currently, the Chinese Navy has two such ships that will support the future carrier: the Hulunhu (965) and the Chaganhu (967).
Regarding the Fujian’s known specifications, it is a vessel displacing 80,000 tons at full load, with an estimated length of about 316 meters and a beam of 76 meters. The carrier, launched in 2022, is reported by the Japanese Ministry of Defense to have the capacity to carry up to 70 aircraft, although this information has not been officially confirmed.
Lastly, the presence of a model of the future stealth J-35 fighter (also known as FC-31) is noteworthy. This Chinese fifth-generation carrier-capable aircraft has already been seen conducting its initial test flights in March of this year. This is significant as it is expected to be part of the aircraft complement aboard the Fujian once it reaches full operational capability, making its development progress crucial for meeting the projected timelines.
Images used for illustrative purposes
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