China: a new technological leap with the aircraft carrier Fujian
On 6 May 2025, China took a significant step forward in the modernisation of its navy with the presentation of the new electromagnetic launch system (EMALS) installed on the aircraft carrier Fujian. The aircraft carrier Fujian, also known as the Type 003, is the Chinese Navy's newest and most technologically advanced aircraft carrier. Its introduction into the fleet represents a turning point, as it becomes the second world power, after the United States, to equip itself with this sophisticated technology.
The public demonstration of this new catapult was broadcast by state television CCTV during an exercise at sea. The electromagnetic catapult enabled the jets to take off with a full load of fuel and armament, allowing them to lift off quickly without sacrificing operational performance. This system, which uses electromagnetic energy instead of traditional mechanical force, is set to revolutionise aircraft carrier take-off operations, providing greater efficiency and flexibility.
The aircraft carrier Fujian and its impact on the Chinese Navy
The Fujian is a newly designed aircraft carrier, designed entirely in China, and is the first of its class to be developed without any foreign support.. With a displacement of 85,000 tonnes, it is larger and more advanced than China's previous aircraft carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong. Initially equipped with the CATOBAR (Catapult-Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) system, the Fujian has now embarked on testing of the EMALS catapults, which represent the future of naval air operations. The electromagnetic catapult allows for faster launches, greater cargo capacity and reduced maintenance compared to traditional systems.
This aircraft carrier, launched in June 2022, has been undergoing testing since 2023. Despite its advanced technology, its operational debut has been postponed due to the complex testing of the new launch system. So far, the Fujian has completed seven sea trials, totalling 111 days, a sign of China's commitment and determination to perfect this vessel. The aircraft carrier is not nuclear-powered, but uses an integrated diesel-electric system, a significant step towards modernising the Navy's logistical and operational capabilities.
Strategic implications and future potential
The successful test of the electromagnetic launch system on Fujian has strong strategic implications. According to military expert Cao Weidong, this launch system will allow heavier aircraft, such as early-warning aircraft and drones, to be boarded in the future and the frequency of launches to be increased. One of the aircraft that could benefit from this new capability is the Xian KJ-600, an Airborne Early Warning surveillance aircraft designed to monitor and protect Chinese forces during naval operations.
The KJ-600, similar to the US E-2C Hawkeye, represents a major breakthrough in air defence, helping to improve real-time airspace control, which is essential in high-intensity conflict scenarios. Although the technical details of the aircraft remain largely secret, it is clear that China is working to create a high-tech naval ecosystem to rival the capabilities of the US military.
With the introduction of the EMALS system and the development of more sophisticated aircraft such as the KJ-600, China is preparing to compete on a naval level with global superpowers. Beijing's goal seems to be to close the technological gap with the United States, which continues to maintain a significant advantage in naval capabilities. However, China's ability to independently develop advanced technologies for its fleet suggests that the conflict of the future could see Chinese forces on an increasingly equal footing with Western forces.
In summary, the Fujian aircraft carrier and its electromagnetic launch system mark a new era for the Chinese Navy, which is moving ever closer to the leading technologies employed by naval superpowers such as the United States. This advancement is a strong signal of Beijing's determination to consolidate its position in the global competition for technological and military supremacy.
Published by Condoralex
Born Alessandro Generotti, C.le Maj. Parachutist on leave. Military Parachutist Patent no. 192806. 186th RGT Par. Folgore/5th BTG. Par. El Alamein/XIII Cp. Par. Condor.
Founder and administrator of the website BRIGATAFOLGORE.NET. Blogger and computer scientist by profession.
