New images from Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) indicate that the aircraft carrier Fujian (CV-18), the most modern and advanced of China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), has reportedly embarked on a new navigation ahead of what is presumed to be its upcoming commissioning. The information released adds that the Type 003 departed its home port in Shanghai toward an unknown area to undergo further sea trials, with particular details observed on its flight deck.
In view of its incorporation into the fleet, the third Chinese carrier —launched in 2022— has been carrying out for months a series of rigorous sea trials aimed at validating both its propulsion systems and its novel electromagnetic catapult system (EMALS), which distinguishes it from its predecessors Liaoning (CV-16) and Shandong (CV-17). These navigations also allow for rehearsal of future operations with the aircraft that will comprise its Embarked Air Wing (EAW), initially expected to include the new carrier-based fighter J-15T and the KJ-600 early warning aircraft, both featured in the Victory Day flyover. The goal is to ensure that all these systems can operate jointly under real conditions, an indispensable step before its formal entry into service.
However, in this new sailing some analysts and observers on social media pointed out that the focus might not be solely on sea trials, as in previous outings, but rather on the operational evaluation of the aircraft that will form the embarked air wing. If confirmed, this step would mark a significant shift in the readiness process, bringing the Fujian closer to commissioning and allowing for early validation of the interaction between the carrier and its EAW aircraft.
At this point, it is relevant to mention that various images released in July of this year showed that the Chinese Navy had been conducting integration tests with the new J-15T carrier fighters, testing takeoffs and landings from the Fujian—an important milestone in validating operational capabilities. It is worth recalling that the new J-15T fighter was officially presented during the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow, being an advanced new variant of the J-15A, which operates from the Liaoning and Shandong, but adapted to operate with the Fujian’s new launch and recovery systems.
Finally, in the lead-up to the 80th anniversary celebrations of Victory Day, reports had suggested that the PLAN could hold the official presentation of the Fujian (CV-18), marking its commissioning and incorporation into the surface fleet. However, during the nationwide celebrations—highlighted by an imposing military parade in Beijing—this did not take place. For this reason, attention is now turning to September 18, the day commemorating the Mukden Incident, a date of great significance for the Chinese people, which in 1931 marked the beginning of the Japanese invasion of Manchuria and the start of a long struggle against the invader, resulting in millions of deaths.
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