--- title: "Two New Versions Of China’s J-15 Carrier Fighter Now Appear To Be Operational" description: "The new Chinese jets appeared during unprecedented dual-carrier operations in the strategically important South China Sea. The new Chinese jets appeared during unprecedented dual-carrier operations in the strategically important South China Sea." date: "2024-10-31" modified: "2024-10-31" authors: - name: "Thomas Newdick" job_title: "Staff Writer" link: "https://www.twz.com/authors/thomas-newdick.md" url: "https://www.twz.com/sea/two-new-versions-of-chinas-j-15-carrier-fighter-now-appear-to-be-operational" categories: - "Air" - "Around The Globe" - "Carriers" - "China" - "Fighters" - "Flankers" - "Indo-Pacific" - "Kuznetsov Class (and variants)" - "Liaoning (16)" - "Navies" - "News & Features" - "People's Liberation Army Navy (China)" - "Sea" - "Shandong (17)" - "South China Sea" tags: - "China" --- # Two New Versions Of China’s J-15 Carrier Fighter Now Appear To Be Operational ![The Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy, or PLAN has for the first time conducted dual-carrier operations in the South China Sea. The drills, involving the country’s first two in-service carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong, as well as at least 11 other vessels, also showcased the PLAN’s fast-growing air wing, with a flyby conducted by a dozen J-15 carrier-based multirole fighters. While clearly engineered for public consumption, the photo opportunity also points to the very rapid progress made by the PLAN in developing its aircraft carrier and wider blue-water capabilities.]() *Chinese Internet via X* The Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy, or PLAN has for the first time conducted [dual-carrier operations]() in the South China Sea. The drills, involving the country’s first two in-service carriers, the *[Liaoning]()* and *[Shandong]()*, as well as at least 11 other vessels, also showcased the PLAN’s fast-growing air wing. This revealed that both the upgraded J-15B single-seat multirole fighter and probably also the [J-15D]() two-seat electronic warfare jet are likely now in operational service. Between them, these new versions of the [J-15 Flanker]() carrier-based fighter point to the rapid progress made by the PLAN in developing more advanced aircraft that operate from its expanding [aircraft carrier]() fleet. https://www.twitter.com/horobeyo/status/1851891707270566044 Photos and a video of the dual-carrier maneuvers were recently released by Chinese state media, although it’s unclear exactly when they date from. While clearly engineered for public consumption — including a flyby conducted by a dozen J-15s overhead the flotilla — the photo opportunity also points to how the PLAN is developing its wider [blue-water capabilities](), including the vessels required to support carriers on long, out-of-area deployments. At the same time, the similarity between this photo exercise (PHOTEX) and the kinds staged by the U.S. Navy — including i[n the Indo-Pacific region]() — is remarkable. The dramatic overhead formation of J-15 fighters — something that is also familiar from [U.S. Navy PHOTEXes involving carriers]() — includes a group of 12 jets, also seen separated into six-ship flights. Meanwhile, another 18 J-15s were visible on the deck of the *Shandong* at the time of the flyby, with at least two more spotted on the *Liaoning*. https://www.twitter.com/RickJoe_PLA/status/1851892932007334132 The fighters include both the original J-15 versions, which are equipped for short takeoff but assisted recovery (STOBAR) operations, and the more modern J-15B, which can also[ conduct catapult takeoff but assisted recovery]() (CATOBAR) operations. Bearing in mind the J-15B wasn’t known to be in operational service, the number of these particular versions involved ([at least 15]()) makes it all the more notable. https://www.twitter.com/RupprechtDeino/status/1852010944072749445 The J-15B is significantly more capable than the earlier J-15 and J-15A. Its CATOBAR features were first tested on the [J-15T prototype](), which added a strengthened nose landing gear with an accompanying catapult launch bar. The series-production J-15B also has a new [active electronically scanned array (AESA)]() radar (under a darker-colored radome, with no pitot tube) and a more modern cockpit. While most J-15Bs still retain the tried and tested AL-31F engines, this version has also been tested with [domestically produced WS-10 turbofans](). https://www.twitter.com/RupprechtDeino/status/1595301744778543104 Less obvious, however, are the two J-15D electronic warfare jets, broadly similar to the U.S. Navy’s [EA-18G Growler](), but likely also possessing a secondary strike mission. These are seen parked immediately alongside the island on the *Shandong*. While they appear to be distinguished by their tandem two-seat cockpits and humped forward fuselages, we cannot entirely rule out the possibility that these are single-seaters. ![]() Reports suggest that the prototype J-15D first flew in late 2016. Like the [land-based J-16D](), this variant is characterized by large wingtip electronic warfare pods and it has the standard infrared search and track (IRST) sensor and cannon removed. Additional conformal and blade antennas are located around the airframe and further EW pods can be carried under the wings and below the fuselage. ![]() *A prototype J-15D with its characteristic wingtip electronic warfare pods. *Chinese Internet via X** Neither the *Liaoning* nor *Shandong* have catapults, but these are a feature of the [new *Fujian*]()*.* Instead, the PLAN’s first two carriers use a ‘ski-jump’ takeoff ramp to launch fixed-wing aircraft. **A useful comparison of the Chinese aircraft carriers *Liaoning* (CV-16), *Shandong* (CV-17), and *Fujian* (CV-18):** https://www.twitter.com/louischeung_hk/status/1537402220303376388 As well as the two carriers, the maneuvers included an expanded surface action group, with various surface combatants and support vessels. This ships can be identified are three [Type 055]() *Renhai* class destroyers, four Type 052D *Luyang III* class destroyers, one [Type 054A]() *Jiangkai II* class frigate, and two Type 901 *Fuyu* class fast combat support ships. ![]() *Twelve J-15s over the PLAN dual-carrier group. *Chinese Internet via X** ![]() *Two support vessels were at the rear of the flotilla. *Chinese Internet via X** Typically, the *Liaoning* and *Shandong* go to sea with air wings made up of up to a maximum of 24 J-15 fighters. These [are generally supported]() by around two Z-18F anti-submarine warfare helicopters, two Z-18JA airborne early warning helicopters, and a pair of smaller Z-9 helicopters for plane-guard and general utility duties. It should be noted that the *Liaoning* and *Shandong* have been at sea simultaneously before but have never been seen in such close proximity. There were also [reports last month]() that the PLAN put three aircraft carriers to sea at the same time, although one of these, the *[Fujian]()*, is not yet operational, while the *Liaoning* and *Shandong* were operating a significant distance apart: in the Philippine Sea and off Hainan Island, respectively. ![]() *The aircraft carrier *Liaoning* at the front of the flotilla. In this photo, the censor has removed the pennant number from the front end of the flight deck. *Chinese Internet via X** The fact that these recent maneuvers were documented in the [highly strategic South China Sea]() is also no coincidence. Beijing claims almost all of these waters as its own, resulting in numerous disputes and standoffs with other nations in this region, and these kinds of naval drills are very much in keeping with China’s military signaling here. Looking at the development of the carrier-based Flanker versions in more detail, the J-15 is the Chinese equivalent of the Soviet-designed [Su-33 Flanker](), a prototype of which China secured from Ukraine to assist in reverse engineering it. Unlike the Su-33, the J-15 has a multirole capability, since it incorporates avionics from the [land-based J-11B fighter](), although it retains the Russian-made AL-31F turbofans, unlike other Chinese Flanker versions now in production. The J-15A designation is sometimes applied to a slightly improved later-production version, with some additional precision-guided weapons options. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=encV6n3hntA As for the new J-15B, as well as its enhanced capabilities, this provides the PLAN with its first experience of CATOBAR operations, which will be fundamental to getting the most out of its future carriers, starting with the *Fujian*, which is equipped with an [electromagnetic aircraft launch system]() (EMALS), something that remains a relatively [new and complex technology](). In the meantime, the J-15B and J-15D can clearly also be operated in STOBAR mode, which provides the air wings of the *Liaoning* and *Shandong* with a more capable fighter compared to the original J-15. It should be noted that the PLAN is also exploring other carrier-based Flanker versions, to further expand the mission spectrum and capabilities of its carrier air wings. These include the [two-seat J-15S](), which some analysts assume will be initially used as a trainer, but which will likely also inform the development of a two-seat carrier-based multirole strike and electronic warfare platform, which may be designated J-17. A multirole-capable two-seater would also be relevant for other more complex missions, including long-range air defense or even [working as a command and control platform]() for combat drones. ![]() *Taken from a TV news report, this image shows an operational J-15S in its PLAN colors, parked alongside a single-seat J-15. *Chinese Internet via X** Ultimately, however, the CATOBAR-capable J-15 and other new Chinese carrier-based Flanker versions will likely be a stepping-stone toward the more advanced capabilities that will be offered by the PLAN’s next carrier fighter, the [stealthy J-35](), developed from the land-based [FC-31](). While the J-35 was designed from the ground up for CATOBAR operations, aboard the *Fujian* and subsequent carriers, [there are also signs]() that it, like the J-15B and J-15D, might also eventually embark on the *Liaoning* and *Shandong*. ![]() *A close-up view of mockups of the J-35 and a J-15 variant aboard the *Liaoning* earlier this year. *Chinese Internet via X** As we have discussed before, having the J-35 join the air wing of the *Liaoning* and *Shandong* would be a significant boost. In addition to its low-observable characteristics, it’s assumed that the production aircraft will feature an advanced AESA radar among a host of modern sensors and very capable weaponry. The downside, as with putting the J-15B aboard the *Liaoning* and *Shandong* is that all these aircraft would have to launch off the bow ramp, limiting their payloads. However, [as we’ve pointed out in the past](), the J-35, which is intended to carry more limited stores internally, may be less dramatically affected than other types. ![]() *A J-35 carrier-based stealth fighter prototype. *Chinese Internet via X* The navalized J-35 — this time not a mockup. *Chinese internet** Perhaps most importantly, integrating the CATOBAR-capable J-15B and J-15D and perhaps also the J-35B into the air wings of China’s first two carriers will provide very valuable experience for pilots, maintainers, and the wider PLAN. After all, the PLAN’s carrier aviation arm is still very much in its infancy, but it has bold ambitions. As well as the *Fujian*, which is now under test, and the J-35, the PLAN is looking forward to introducing the [KJ-600]() carrier-based radar plane, which will play a role analogous to the [E-2 Hawkeye]() as a critical force-multiplier. The size and weight of the KJ-600 will preclude it from going to sea aboard the *Liaoning* and *Shandong.* Carrier-based drones, including unmanned combat air vehicles (UCAVs), are also [a growing area of interest]() for the PLAN and it’s now widely expected that the *Fujian*, at least, [will eventually embark]() a low-observable UCAV that will offer strike, surveillance, [and targeting capabilities.]() ![]() *An artist’s concept of a future Chinese aircraft carrier. *Chinese internet via @HenriKenhmann** After the *Fujian*, China is also widely expected to introduce more fully locally designed carriers, perhaps even with nuclear propulsion rather than the conventional powerplants used in its first three flattops. In the meantime, the recent photo opportunity showing the PLAN’s dual-carrier operations and the expanding capabilities of its air wing, provide yet another indication of China’s expanding naval presence, especially in terms of its steadily growing carrier force. *Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com* ## Author Thomas Newdick is a staff writer at *TWZ*, where he covers military aviation, defense technology, weapons systems, and international security. Based in Berlin, Germany, he reports on conflicts, military modernization efforts, and emerging aerospace technologies around the world, with a particular interest in airpower and its role in contemporary warfare. His reporting is informed by deep expertise in modern and historical airpower, particularly in Europe, with a focus on military aviation, air campaigns, and aerospace developments across the continent and beyond. Over a journalism career spanning more than 25 years, Thomas has become known for making complex defense and aerospace topics accessible to a broad audience. His reporting combines technical expertise, historical context, and a focus on the real-world operational and strategic implications of military developments. ### Author social links [Twitter]()