Fujian Aircraft Carrier Commissioning: China’s Third Carrier
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Updated as of September 25, 2025, 19:16:00 GMT. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Fujian, China’s third aircraft carrier, its capabilities, and its implications for regional and global security.
Background: China’s Aircraft Carrier Program
China’s aircraft carrier program began with the purchase of the incomplete Soviet-era carrier Varyag in 1998,which was later refitted and commissioned as the Liaoning (16) in 2012.This was followed by the domestically built Shandong (17), commissioned in 2019. The Fujian represents a significant advancement, being the first fully domestically designed and built carrier utilizing a catapult launch system.
The growth of these carriers is part of China’s broader military modernization efforts,aimed at securing its maritime interests and projecting power globally. according to the U.S. Department of Defense, China views its navy as crucial for achieving its strategic goals, including resolving the Taiwan issue and controlling key sea lanes Department of Defense Report.
The Fujian: Key Features and Capabilities
The Fujian is a Type 003 aircraft carrier, displacing approximately 80,000 tons. It features a full-length flight deck, an advanced integrated power system, and, crucially, electromagnetic catapults (EMALS) for launching aircraft. This is a major upgrade from the ski-jump launch systems used on the Liaoning and Shandong, allowing for a wider range of aircraft to be deployed and a higher launch rate.
Here’s a comparison of the three Chinese aircraft carriers:
| Carrier | Type | Displacement (tons) | Launch System | Commissioning Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liaoning (16) | Refitted Soviet-era | 67,500 | Ski-jump | 2012 |
| Shandong (17) | Domestic | 70,000 | Ski-jump | 2019 |
| Fujian (17) | Domestic | 80,000 | EMALS (Catapult) | Expected 2025 |
The Fujian is expected to carry approximately 36 J-15T carrier-based fighter jets, as well as helicopters for anti-submarine warfare and early warning roles. The EMALS system will enable the carrier to operate a more diverse air wing in the future, potentially including fixed-wing early warning aircraft and electronic warfare platforms Naval News Analysis.
Commissioning and Operational Timeline
The Fujian was launched on June 17,2022,at the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai. Since then