The J-15 family is being redesigned for catapult takeoff as China shifts from STOBAR ships to the CATOBAR carrier Fujian. Catapults remove much of the ski jump's takeoff-weight penalty and will change how the air wing plans fuel and weapons loads. The J-15's already reinforced structure offers a useful starting point for absorbing launch forces as well as arrested recovery. The adapted type continues to support the expanding air arm while the newer J-35 enters service.
Chapter · 46:57-47:39
Adapting the J-15 for Fujian's catapults
Fujian's catapults move Chinese carrier aviation beyond ski-jump limits while retaining adapted J-15s alongside the newer J-35.