Although it has not yet begun, the Zhuhai Airshow, one of China’s leading air festivals and exhibitions, is already revealing significant advancements in the modernization of the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) naval air capabilities. In addition to unveiling the new fifth-generation J-35A stealth fighter and the new carrier-based J-15T aircraft (previously known as the J-15B), the Chinese Navy has officially introduced the new carrier-based Shenyang J-15D electronic warfare aircraft, intended to equip the air wings of its aircraft carrier fleet.

Like the J-15T, the new J-15D electronic warfare aircraft derives its design from the J-15A, which currently equips the Carrier Air Wings (CAW) on the Liaoning and Shandong carriers. These heavily modified versions, in turn, are derived from the Soviet/Russian Su-33. One of the main differences is that it is a twin-seat aircraft, which, considering its function in a Theater of Operations, requires an operator to handle the various electronic warfare systems.

Several specialists have noted that the new J-15T and J-15D pairing (adapted for operation from the new Fujian carrier) is analogous to the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler. Although unconfirmed, it is believed that, like U.S. carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft, the new J-15D may have attack capabilities through the use of anti-radiation missiles and other types of weaponry, complementing its primary role of degrading and interfering with enemy systems in an operational area.

Regarding the current status of the development program, which remains highly secretive by Chinese authorities and companies, several signs suggest that its entry into service may have already occurred or be imminent. The first indication came a few days ago when, during a joint deployment of the Liaoning and Shandong carriers, a formation flight of a J-15T detachment (previously known as J-15B by Western observers) was observed. Additionally, photos showed what appeared to be two J-15D electronic warfare aircraft on the flight deck of the Shandong, although no further information was confirmed. It is presumed that these units are being tested on these vessels in preparation for their final delivery and subsequent entry into service.

With the Zhuhai Airshow just around the corner, scheduled to take place from November 12 to 17, the Chinese Navy and Shenyang, the company leading the program, officially presented the J-15T, a member of China’s Flanker family designed for CATOBAR-configured carrier operations. This presentation was followed by the new J-15D electronic warfare aircraft, with several test flights and demonstrations.

The official unveiling of various new carrier-based aircraft models by the PLA can be seen as a necessary push to renew the carrier-based aircraft segment of the PLA Navy’s Naval Aviation. Alongside the new J-15T and J-15D, the development of carrier-based versions of the J-35, also presented by the PLA Air Force at the festival, and the future KJ-600 airborne early warning and control aircraft, still in the development and flight testing phase, should also be considered. These advances and innovations align with the introduction of a new generation of CATOBAR-configured aircraft carriers, based on the Type 004 Fujian, currently undergoing sea trials, opening a range of possibilities for the strategic projection efforts of the Asian giant.

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