The Fujian Aircraft Carrier: An Overview

The Fujian aircraft carrier, designed by China’s state-owned shipbuilder, CSIC (China State Shipbuilding Corporation), is the country’s third operational aircraft carrier and its first domestically built one. The 50,000-tonne warship measures 315 meters in length and 75 meters in width, with a maximum speed of over 30 knots. Its flat deck design allows for a mix of conventional takeoff and arrested recovery (CTAR) and short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) operations.

The air wing capacity of the Fujian is reportedly around 24-30 aircraft, consisting of a combination of fighter jets, attack planes, early warning aircraft, and helicopters. The mainstay of the air wing will be the **Shenyang J-15**, China’s only operational fifth-generation multirole fighter, which can perform various tasks such as air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. Additionally, the air wing may include the Xian H-6K bomber, used for precision strikes, and Harbin Z-9 helicopters for anti-submarine warfare and search-and-rescue operations. The Fujian’s air wing will provide a significant boost to China’s naval capabilities, enabling it to project power across the Asia-Pacific region and potentially contest US influence in the region.

Air Wing Capacity and Composition

The Fujian aircraft carrier’s air wing capacity is expected to be around 24-30 fixed-wing combat aircraft, which will be supported by a mix of helicopters and early warning planes. The air wing will comprise a combination of multirole fighters such as the J-15 Flying Shark and J-10 Vigilante, as well as specialized aircraft like the Su-35 Flanker and Su-30 Flanker.

The air wing composition is designed to provide a balance between air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strike, and reconnaissance capabilities. The J-15, for example, will serve as the carrier’s primary fighter, capable of engaging enemy aircraft and providing close air support. Meanwhile, the Su-35 and Su-30 will be used for long-range intercepts and strike missions.

In addition to its fixed-wing combat aircraft, the Fujian will also carry a squadron of helicopters, including Z-8 transport and Ka-28 anti-submarine warfare platforms. These helicopters will provide air support for amphibious operations, as well as conduct reconnaissance and search-and-rescue missions.

The air wing’s composition is designed to support a range of scenarios, from routine patrol missions to high-intensity combat operations. The Fujian’s air wing will be capable of operating in a variety of environments, including dense or contested airspace, making it a valuable asset for the PLAN (People’s Liberation Army Navy) in its various operational roles.

Aviation Capabilities: Takeoff and Landing

The Fujian aircraft carrier’s aviation capabilities are designed to support its role as a flagship for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). One critical aspect of these capabilities is its takeoff and landing procedures.

The ship features a ski-jump ramp on its bow, which allows fighter jets like the Shenyang J-15 Flying Shark to launch vertically and then transition to horizontal flight. This design enables the aircraft carrier to operate in dense or contested airspace by minimizing the time spent at low altitudes, where it is more vulnerable to anti-aircraft defenses.

However, operating an aircraft carrier in a dense or contested airspace presents significant challenges. The ship must navigate through congested skies while avoiding collisions with other aircraft, ground installations, and even its own air wing. To mitigate these risks, the Fujian features advanced navigation systems, including radar and electronic warfare suites that detect and track nearby threats.

The ship’s crew also employs a range of tactics to minimize risk, such as using designated " corridors" for takeoff and landing, and employing “buddy checks” to ensure that pilots are aware of each other’s positions. Despite these measures, the Fujian must still rely on its skilled pilots and maintenance personnel to ensure safe operations.

  • Key Takeaways:
    • The Fujian aircraft carrier features a ski-jump ramp for vertical takeoff and landing
    • Operating an aircraft carrier in dense or contested airspace requires advanced navigation systems and tactical planning
    • The ship’s crew employs tactics like designated corridors and buddy checks to minimize risk during takeoff and landing operations

Combat System and Electronic Warfare

The Fujian aircraft carrier’s combat system is designed to provide aircrew with real-time information and situational awareness, enabling them to engage targets effectively while minimizing risk to friendly forces. The ship is equipped with a Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) that detects and tracks enemy radar signals, providing early warning of potential threats. This information is fed into the combat system’s Air Situation Display (ASD), which presents aircrew with a comprehensive picture of the battlespace.

The Fujian also features an advanced Communication Network that enables seamless communication between aircraft, ground stations, and other ships in the fleet. This network includes Link-16, a secure, jam-resistant data link used to transmit tactical data and coordinate operations. Additionally, the ship is equipped with Satellite Communication (SATCOM) systems, which provide global coverage and enable communication with distant assets.

The Fujian’s electronic warfare suites are designed to disrupt and degrade enemy air defenses. Its Electronic Support Measures (ESM) system detects and identifies radar signals, while its Electronic Attack (EA) Pod can transmit jamming signals to saturate or disable enemy radars. The ship also carries a selection of Anti-Radiation Missiles (ARMs), which can be used to destroy enemy radar installations. These capabilities make the Fujian a formidable opponent in electronic warfare engagements.

Strategic Implications: China’s Naval Ambitions

The Fujian aircraft carrier’s capabilities and air wing capacity have significant strategic implications for China’s naval ambitions. As the PLAN’s first domestically built carrier, it will be used to support operations in the South China Sea and beyond. The carrier’s advanced radar systems, communication networks, and electronic warfare suites (discussed in previous chapters) enable it to detect and track potential threats, coordinate with other PLAN assets, and disrupt enemy communications.

The Fujian’s air wing capacity is particularly noteworthy, as it can carry a mix of fighter jets, attack aircraft, and helicopters. This versatility allows the carrier to perform a range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground strikes, and anti-submarine warfare. Furthermore, the PLAN has developed a robust logistics network that enables its carriers to remain at sea for extended periods.

The Fujian’s strategic implications are far-reaching. It will allow China to project power across the South China Sea, potentially deterring US naval vessels from entering disputed waters. The carrier will also enable China to conduct joint operations with other PLAN assets, such as submarines and amphibious ships, further enhancing its ability to exercise sea control.

Moreover, the Fujian’s presence will likely be felt in regional security dynamics, as it will contribute to an already complex balance of power in East Asia. While some countries may view the carrier as a threat, others may see it as a stabilizing force that enhances regional security and promotes cooperation.

In conclusion, the Fujian aircraft carrier is a significant asset for the PLAN, offering advanced capabilities and a strong air wing capacity. Its induction into service marks a new era in China’s naval development and its ability to project power across the region. As China continues to grow as a global power, its naval capabilities will play an increasingly important role in maintaining regional stability.