Older Chinese aircraft carriers are capable of operating nearer to the more sophisticated ones. Fujian more than previously believed, analysts noted after PLA drills demonstrated advanced fighter jets launching from older bases Liaoning carrier .
Images taken during a 40-day mission A series of activities in the South China Sea and Pacific Ocean concluded on June 22, during which several J-15T aircraft were seen launching from and returning to the Liaoning.
China has three aircraft carriers in operation, utilizing two different takeoff methods.
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The older Liaoning and Shandong Both aircraft carriers deploy jet fighters from an arched "ski jump" deck. The Fujian, China’s latest carrier, features an electromagnetic launching system – a technology enabling faster takeoffs and carrying heavier payloads. Currently, only China and the United States have implemented this innovation.
The J-15T, A version of China's initial carrier-based jet fighter, capable of being deployed using an electromagnetic launch system.
Defense experts indicated that the photographs imply the J-15T might be capable of launching from and landing on every one of China's aircraft carrier vessels, affecting the nation's overall military effectiveness.
Fu Qianshao A military analyst who previously served as an officer in the People's Liberation Army Air Force stated that the J-15T’s capability to conduct both arrested recovery and ski-jump launches represented a significant strategic benefit.
"In future joint carrier operations—particularly those featuring various kinds of aircraft carriers—the J-15T can be transferred between vessels, significantly enhancing tactical versatility," Fu stated.
Should one aircraft carrier suffer damage or become non-operational, its J-15T fighter squadrons could be relocated to other carriers, maintaining combat readiness and overall fleet efficiency, according to a report from state media CCTV last year.
"Since the total fighting power of the J-15T significantly exceeds that of the standard J-15, it is expected that these aircraft equipped with catapult systems will ultimately take over from the earlier versions on current ski-jump carriers," Fu said.
General Zhang Xuefeng, a defense analyst, stated during an interview with CCTV on Monday that stationing the J-15T aboard the Liaoning would greatly enhance the aircraft carrier's overall aerial dominance, along with its ability to conduct attacks against naval and terrestrial targets.
He mentioned that, unlike the standard model, the modified aircraft featured extended-range missiles along with enhanced radar and targeting equipment, enabling it to identify, monitor, and attack enemies from farther away.
The recent exercises conducted by the Liaoning, well away from China's main landmass, indicate that coordinated activities with the Fujian may be approaching.
In September 2025, Fujian's catapult system was activated and supported the landing operations of the J-15T, the J-35 stealth fighter, and the KJ-600 aerial surveillance aircraft for the initial time, signifying a milestone within the airline's ability to conduct flight operations.
State-run media reported that the carrier was anticipated to be completely functional by the conclusion of this year.
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