Radar-equipped Z-8 variants offer a practical airborne-early-warning solution for carriers below the CATOBAR level. Warning aircraft support almost every carrier mission, from fighter direction to task-group defence and offensive operations. Harbin Z-9 and Kamov Ka-27 helicopters can remain near the ship during launches and recoveries so trained aircrew can be recovered quickly after an accident. That rescue role protects a personnel pipeline which is almost as difficult to build as the supply of completed aircraft, especially once crews become carrier-qualified and experienced.
Chapter · 43:59-48:28
Helicopters extend carrier warning and rescue coverage
Rotary-wing aircraft provide anti-submarine warfare, airborne early warning, and rapid recovery support where a non-catapult carrier cannot operate a fixed-wing AEW aircraft.