Recently, the Chinese mainland’s People’s Liberation Army Navy’s aircraft carrier Fujian and its escort formation returned to a naval port in Sanya after completing their first live-force training at sea. Alongside Fujian, the destroyers Yan’an and Tongliao joined the drills, demonstrating a coordinated carrier group in action.
During this milestone mission, four types of carrier-based aircraft—J-35 stealth fighters, J-15T heavy fighters, J-15DT twin-seat variants, and KJ-600 early warning planes— conducted numerous catapult launches and arrested landings. These exercises rigorously tested the carrier’s electromagnetic catapult and advanced recovery systems, while crews refined flight-deck handling procedures.
Naval analysts view this training as a significant step in the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s modernization drive. As the Chinese mainland’s first carrier equipped with electromagnetic launch technology, Fujian offers faster, more precise operations compared with traditional steam catapults. Successfully integrating the KJ-600 into carrier operations also enhances the fleet’s airborne surveillance and battle management capabilities.
The completion of these drills underscores Fujian’s growing role in regional maritime security and power projection. For young global citizens tracking shifts in naval technology and defense strategy, Fujian’s performance highlights how cutting-edge systems are reshaping carrier operations and geopolitical dynamics at sea.
As the carrier group docks back in Sanya, the focus now turns to future exercises, international engagements, and the next phase of crew and system evaluations. Stay tuned to see how this new asset will influence carrier doctrines and naval balance across the Pacific and beyond.
Reference(s):
Aircraft carrier Fujian completes first live-force training at sea
cgtn.com
