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China’s navy released video footage on September 22, 2025, showing carrier-based aircraft conducting launch and recovery exercises on its third aircraft carrier, the Fujian. This vessel is the first Chinese carrier equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system powered by a linear motor. The footage marks the first successful training using this catapult technology.

The video shows the latest stealth fighter J-35, early warning aircraft KJ-600, and fighter J-15T being launched via the electromagnetic catapult. The Fujian differs from China’s first two carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong, which use ski-jump ramps for aircraft launches. The electromagnetic catapult enables more efficient and stronger aircraft launches, enhancing operational capabilities.
. Photo: https://www.jiji.com/jc/article?k=2025092300502 Accessed 2025-09-23

The Fujian is a conventionally powered aircraft carrier with an estimated length of 316 meters, a beam of 76 meters, and a full load displacement between 80,000 and 85,000 tons. It features three electromagnetic catapults and an angled landing area with arresting gear. Its air wing is expected to comprise around 40 to 60 aircraft, including the Shenyang J-15T, the J-35 stealth fighter, the J-15DT electronic-warfare aircraft, and the KJ-600 airborne early warning and control aircraft.

This development represents a technical advancement in China’s carrier capability, facilitating the launch of heavier and more diverse aircraft than previous carriers. It supports the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s goal of expanding its blue-water operational capacity.

Info based on: https://www.jiji.com/jc/article?k=2025092300502 Accessed 2025-09-23

A new aircraft carrier system uses an electromagnetic catapult to launch aircraft with extremely high acceleration. The system relies on a component called a “mover”, which operates similarly to a maglev mechanism, using strong electromagnetic forces to rapidly propel aircraft from a standstill to takeoff speed within seconds.

This technology enables the launch of a wider range of aircraft types, including not only fighter jets but also heavier support aircraft such as early-warning planes, electronic warfare aircraft, and anti-submarine platforms.

With this system deployed on the Fujian, China now joins the United States as one of the only countries operating aircraft carriers equipped with functional electromagnetic catapult launch systems.

Info based on: https://fathomjournal.org/31417aaasmm/1 ... PbVv8.html Accessed 2026-05-14