J-15 variants and the two-seat electronic-warfare role

The J-15S supported testing, the J-15T points toward catapult operations, and the two-seat J-15DH and improved J-15DT specialize in electronic warfare. A second crew member can monitor and adapt complex EW systems while the pilot concentrates on flying and tactical duties. A trained operator can still interpret a changing electromagnetic environment even when computers handle much of the work. China accepted the cost of scarce carrier airframes and an extra crew member for a dedicated EW role.