The J-15's permitted takeoff weight depends on deck-run length and carrier speed. One interpretation assigns Liaoning and Shandong's 195-meter waist position to a heavily loaded strike aircraft, while the two 105-meter forward positions suit quicker air-defense launches. The longer position can also launch a third fighter after the forward pair, giving commanders a way to reinforce an urgent defensive cycle. Deck layout therefore shapes the tradeoff between sortie speed and weapons or fuel load.
Chapter · 42:03-43:43
Launch positions, combat air patrols, and carrier air-group size
Different ski-jump runs support heavier strike launches or quicker defensive sorties, showing how deck geometry shapes a STOBAR carrier's tactical choices.