Russia offered the most relevant experience with fighters operating from the same style of STOBAR carrier, but the Su-33 was known for weak operational reliability and a tendency to become a hangar queen. The J-15 developed a comparatively good maintenance and serviceability reputation for a first-generation naval aircraft. That contrast supports the inference that Shenyang emphasized keeping aircraft available at sea over maximizing every cutting-edge feature. The choice gave China more sorties and more opportunities to build the operational experience needed for later carrier fighters.
Notable Point · 38:51-41:00
Choosing serviceability over cutting-edge electronics
For a first carrier fighter, reliable operation and accumulated institutional knowledge may matter more than matching the best sensors and electronics.