Quantcast

China relies on Shenyang J-15 for aircraft carrier operations

China relies on Shenyang J-15 for aircraft carrier operations
Policy
Webp 9d8e4n9zvnq6npvse1f7c4oouh5n
Airbus A380 | Airbus

China's development of aircraft carriers and carrier-based fighter jets is a significant aspect of its growing military capabilities. The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) currently operates three aircraft carriers: the Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian, with the latter undergoing sea trials. The main fighter jet used on these carriers is the Shenyang J-15.

The J-15 is a reverse-engineered version of Russia's Sukhoi Su-33, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. It entered service in 2009 and features technologies from the Shenyang J-11B program. Despite its capabilities, some experts consider it technologically outdated compared to modern stealth fighters like the Lockheed Martin F-35C.

The Chinese military has acknowledged this limitation and is developing a next-generation stealth-enabled carrier-capable fighter based on the land-based Shenyang J-35. This new aircraft is expected to replace the J-15 within the next decade.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

The development of the J-15 began in 2006 after China acquired an unfinished Su-33 prototype from Ukraine. The first flight occurred in August 2009, powered by Russian-built Saturn AL-31 engines. Over time, China has introduced various modifications to improve performance and adaptability for different missions.

In recent years, China has demonstrated a version of the J-15 powered by domestically built Shenyang WS-10 engines, signaling progress in local engine production. The J-15 remains an essential component of China's naval air power despite limitations such as combat range and reliance on ski-jump launches.

Currently operating from Liaoning and Shandong carriers, the J-15 will soon be deployed on Fujian as well. While its operational history is limited due to China's lack of direct naval air combat engagements, analysts expect it to play a crucial role if regional conflicts arise.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Every now and then, ambitious aircraft concepts emerge that capture attention but often do not materialize.

Jun 8, 2025

Long Beach Airport has announced a new daily nonstop service to Baltimore Washington International (BWI) through Southwest Airlines.

Jun 7, 2025

Lidl workers in Belgium initiated a strike and blockades on June 5, following similar actions in France and Italy.

Jun 6, 2025

Delta Air Lines is expanding its flight offerings for the 2025 pro football season, introducing new routes and increasing capacity to accommodate fans traveling to major games.

Jun 6, 2025

National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) President and CEO Ed Bolen addressed the U.S. House Aviation Subcommittee, emphasizing the urgent need to reform the nation's air traffic control (ATC) infrastructure.

Jun 6, 2025

Last month, over 130 volunteers from Delta Air Lines and several partner organizations collaborated to construct a new playground in College Park, Georgia.

Jun 6, 2025