China Launches Stealth Fighter from New Carrier in Historic Test
BREAKING: China has made a significant technological breakthrough by successfully launching a stealth fighter off its newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, utilizing an advanced electromagnetic catapult system. This development, confirmed by the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), highlights China’s rapid advancements in military technology and naval capabilities.
On September 22, 2025, the PLAN released footage showing the J-35 stealth fighter, alongside other military aircraft, taking off from the Fujian during its latest sea trials. This marks a pivotal moment in China’s military history, as it becomes the first nation to deploy a stealth aircraft from a carrier equipped with electromagnetic launch technology, a capability previously exclusive to the US Navy.
The newly unveiled video showcases multiple aircraft, including the J-15T and the KJ-600 early warning aircraft, performing operations that underline China’s ambition to construct a formidable naval fleet. Experts have noted that the use of electromagnetic catapults offers distinct advantages over traditional steam systems, allowing for more efficient and versatile aircraft launches.
Matthew Funaiole, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, remarked,
“It is remarkable how quickly China has moved from no carriers to advanced electromagnetic catapults.”
This statement reflects the rapid evolution of China’s naval capabilities and its strategic intent to rival the US in maritime power.
The Fujian, which was launched in 2022, is China’s third aircraft carrier and the second built domestically. It features a flat flight deck and advanced launch systems that significantly enhance its operational effectiveness compared to its predecessors, the Liaoning and Shandong.
As the Fujian undergoes its final sea trials, set to assess its long-term mission capabilities, the Chinese military continues to emphasize its commitment to modernizing its forces. The carrier has already completed eight sea trials, demonstrating operational capabilities that include aircraft launches and recovery maneuvers.
The advancements showcased in the PLAN’s footage come at a time of heightened military focus in the Asia-Pacific region. With the Fujian’s capabilities, China aims to enhance its naval presence and operational reach significantly. The KJ-600, in particular, is seen as a critical asset that provides early warning and control capabilities that can coordinate complex operations across China’s expanding naval forces.
While the US Navy has decades of experience in carrier operations, Funaiole cautioned that the effectiveness of these new systems will depend on their performance under real-world conditions, including adverse weather and combat scenarios. He stated, “State-sponsored videos will only show you what’s working,” highlighting the challenges ahead for the PLAN to reach operational readiness comparable to the US Navy.
The implications of this development are profound, as the global balance of military power shifts. Analysts are closely monitoring how these advancements will affect regional security dynamics and naval engagements in the South China Sea and beyond.
As the world watches, the next steps for China’s naval program will be critical. The successful launch of the J-35 is not just a technical achievement; it signals China’s determination to enhance its military capabilities and assert its influence on the global stage.
