China's Electromagnetic Leap: PLAN Launches Stealth Jets from Revolutionary Aircraft Carrier

China Launches Stealth Jet from Electromagnetic Catapult Aircraft Carrier In a significant milestone for the Chinese military's carrier program, the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has successfully launched and recovered aircraft from its first electromagnetic catapult-equipped aircraft carrier, the CNS Fujian. The demonstration marks a major advancement in China's naval capabilities and cements its position as a leading player in the Asia-Pacific region. According to official imagery released by the PLAN, the new J-35 naval stealth fighters, KJ-600 airborne early warning and control aircraft, and J-15T fighter jet are carrying out carrier trials. Ben Lewis, co-founder of PLATracker, described the test as a "significant milestone" for the Chinese military's carrier program. "Once operational, the PLAN will have the capacity to field fifth-generation stealth carrier aircraft, supported by fixed-wing carrier-based airborne early warning and command aircraft, across the first island chain and Western Pacific Ocean," Lewis said. The use of electromagnetic catapults offers several advantages over traditional steam-powered systems. These include greater flexibility in launching different types of aircraft, including larger and slower planes like the KJ-600, or smaller and lighter drones. This capability is particularly significant for China's naval strategy, as it enables the PLAN to project power across a wide range of scenarios. The CNS Fujian is China's first aircraft carrier equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, which was developed in collaboration with Russia. The ship's advanced propulsion system and cutting-edge electronics make it one of the most sophisticated warships in the world. In contrast to the U.S. Navy, which has decades of experience with steam-powered catapults, China is taking a more modern approach to naval aviation. Electromagnetic catapults are designed to be more efficient and flexible, allowing for the launch of a wider range of aircraft types. The implications of this development are significant, both for regional security dynamics and for the global balance of power. As China continues to expand its maritime capabilities, it is likely to have far-reaching consequences for international relations in the Asia-Pacific region. Background China's carrier program has been underway for several years, with the CNS Fujian commissioned in 2022. The ship's development was marked by significant delays and setbacks, but the successful launch of aircraft from its electromagnetic catapult system marks a major milestone in the program's progress. Additional Perspectives Experts say that China's use of electromagnetic catapults is a strategic move to counterbalance U.S. naval power in the region. "China is trying to create a more level playing field with the United States," said Dr. Michael Auslin, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. "By developing its own advanced carrier technology, China is sending a signal that it will not be left behind in the Asia-Pacific." Current Status and Next Developments The successful launch of aircraft from the CNS Fujian's electromagnetic catapult system marks an important step forward for China's naval capabilities. As the PLAN continues to develop its carrier program, it is likely to have significant implications for regional security dynamics and the global balance of power. In the coming months, China is expected to continue testing and refining its electromagnetic catapult system, with a focus on integrating different types of aircraft into its carrier operations. The development of advanced naval aviation capabilities will be closely watched by international observers, who are eager to see how China's military modernization efforts will shape regional security dynamics in the years ahead. *Reporting by Tech.*