China has taken a big step in naval technology. For the first time, its new aircraft carrier, Fujian, has used an electromagnetic catapult system (EMALS) to launch fighter jets and an early warning aircraft. Until now, only the United States has had this advanced system on its USS Gerald R. Ford.
What Makes EMALS Important?
The EMALS system is a major upgrade compared to older ski-jump ramps. It allows jets to carry more fuel and weapons when taking off. That means Chinese planes can fly farther and strike harder.
The new capability gives the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) “blue-water” power. In simple terms, China can now project its military strength far beyond its own coastline.
State broadcaster CCTV showed Fujian launching three types of aircraft:
- J-35 stealth fighter
- Upgraded J-15T fighter
- KJ-600 early warning aircraft
Chinese media called it a “milestone” in the nation’s carrier program.
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Fujian vs US Aircraft Carriers
With EMALS, Fujian stands in the same league as America’s most modern carrier. But there is one key difference. The USS Gerald R. Ford is nuclear-powered, while Fujian uses conventional power.
This means US carriers can operate at sea for months, limited only by food and supplies. Fujian, on the other hand, must refuel at sea or dock more often. Even so, analysts say it is the most advanced carrier in China’s fleet. Reports suggest the carrier could soon be officially commissioned.
What’s Next for the Chinese Navy?
Former US Navy captain Carl Schuster said Fujian will undergo more trials. These will include integration tests with the PLA Air Force and Rocket Force by spring next year. If successful, China will gain a powerful tool to expand its influence in contested areas like the South China Sea and beyond.
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Geopolitical Timing Raises Concerns
The timing of Fujian’s progress is sensitive. A US congressional delegation is currently visiting Beijing, the first such trip in six years. Their focus is on restoring military communication between the two powers.
US Representative Adam Smith warned, “China is the most rapidly growing military and the most rapidly growing nuclear power in the world… It is dangerous for us not to have regular communications.”
Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun urged Washington to “remove disruptive and restrictive factors” to improve ties. The talks come just weeks before US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping meet at the APEC summit in South Korea.
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A Bigger Strategic Race
China’s EMALS breakthrough is not just about ships and planes. It is also about technology competition. The system uses advanced electromagnetic engineering, an area where China is catching up fast. Experts believe this achievement shows Beijing’s push to narrow the gap with Washington in both military and technological power.
The advancements in Fujian show that the US is no longer the only owner of this vital technology. It calls into question how quickly China will be able to threaten American maritime control.
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