Could all of China’s aircraft carriers soon operate J-35 stealth fighters?
China's People's Liberation Army Navy may soon equip all three of its aircraft carriers with the J-35 stealth fighter. Currently, only the most advanced carrier, the Fujian, can operate the J-35 due to its electromagnetic catapult system.

Briefing Summary
AI-generatedChina's People's Liberation Army Navy may soon equip all three of its aircraft carriers with the J-35 stealth fighter. Currently, only the most advanced carrier, the Fujian, can operate the J-35 due to its electromagnetic catapult system. The older carriers, Liaoning and Shandong, utilize a ski-jump deck for launching J-15 fighters. However, state media reports suggest that these two carriers are undergoing upgrades, with one social media post from CCTV questioning if the J-35 is already being tested on the Liaoning during its operations in the western Pacific. Chinese experts believe this integration would significantly enhance the PLA Navy's combat capabilities.
Article analysis
Model · rule-basedKey claims
5 extractedThe Liaoning and Shandong carriers launch J-15 fighters from a ski-jump deck.
Currently, only China’s most advanced carrier, the Fujian, can host the J-35.
The J-35 stealth fighter would significantly bolster the PLA Navy’s combat abilities.
There are signs that the Liaoning and Shandong carriers are being upgraded.
All three of China’s aircraft carriers could soon be able to operate the J-35 stealth fighter.