On May 24, CCTV News reported that China’s first catapult-type aircraft carrier, the Fujian, is accelerating its sea trials. Once commissioned, it is expected to bring greater flexibility to carrier-based operations. According to the report, the Fujian, China’s first aircraft carrier equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, is currently undergoing intensive sea testing.
Compared to conventional aircraft carriers, the Fujian’s catapult launch system provides significant advantages. Firstly, it allows fighter jets to take off fully loaded with fuel and weapons, effectively boosting their combat capability. Additionally, the catapult system enables the carrier to deploy fixed-wing airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft, substantially enhancing the ship’s early warning detection capabilities and its ability to manage and coordinate carrier-based aircraft operations.
Moreover, the electromagnetic catapult system allows for precise control over launch force. This enables a wide range of aircraft—from large transport planes and AEW aircraft to smaller drones—to be launched from the carrier, giving the vessel much greater operational flexibility.
Chinese military expert Cao Weidong noted that with the use of electromagnetic catapults, the number of aircraft that can take off and land on the Fujian per day will increase significantly, greatly enhancing the carrier’s ability to gain air and sea superiority.
Cao also mentioned that during these sea trials, stealth aircraft such as the J-35 are also undergoing flight tests for carrier compatibility. This further strengthens the carrier’s combat capabilities. “Therefore, I believe that once the Fujian is commissioned, it will greatly enhance the People’s Navy’s capacity for both coastal defense and long-range escort missions.”
It is rumored that by December 2024, the Fujian had completed its fifth sea trial. Analysts believe that this phase involved takeoff and landing tests of carrier-based aircraft, indicating that the key system—the electromagnetic catapult—is functioning properly.
When asked at a press conference about the rumored seventh sea trial in March 2025, China’s Ministry of National Defense responded that sea trials are a normal part of the shipbuilding process and advised the public to remain calm: “Everyone should take it in stride.”
