China's newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, Fujian (photo provided by Japan's Ministry of Defense Joint Staff Office, September 11, East China Sea).
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On September 12, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) announced that its newest aircraft carrier, Fujian, had transited the Taiwan Strait, according to state-run Xinhua News Agency. While it did not give a specific date, sources believe the carrier conducted tests and training in the South China Sea. This suggests that preparations for its formal commissioning may now be in their final stage.
Electromagnetic Catapult and SDF Watch
Fujian is China's third aircraft carrier. A PLA Navy spokesperson described the voyage as cross-regional tests and training. He emphasized that it was "a regular arrangement in the aircraft carrier's construction process," and was "not aimed at any specific target." Since May 2024, Fujian has carried out multiple sea trials in anticipation of entering service.
Japan's Ministry of Defense Joint Staff Office announced on September 11 that it had detected the Fujian sailing in the East China Sea. This marked the first time the Self-Defense Forces have confirmed the carrier's movements.
The Fujian is also the first Chinese carrier equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, which launches aircraft using linear motor technology. By contrast, China's two existing carriers, Liaoning and Shandong, use a ski-jump style deck that relies on aircraft taking off under their own power from an upward-sloping bow.
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Author: Shohei Mitsuka, The Sankei Shimbun
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