China develops new J-15T naval fighter optimized for electromagnetic catapult takeoff.

At the Zhuhai Air Show 2024, China introduced the J-15T, a new variant of its J-15 carrier-borne fighter jet, which is designed for use on the Chinese Navy’s (PLAN) Fujian aircraft carrier. This variant represents the PLAN’s first catapult-capable model of the J-15 and aligns with the Fujian's electromagnetic catapult-assisted takeoff system. The J-15T’s arrival with the tail number 1518 marks the first appearance of a PLAN naval fighter jet at a public event in Zhuhai, underscoring the Navy’s interest in highlighting this aircraft within its carrier fleet.
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The Chinese J-15T was first sighted in 2014 as a CATOBAR (catapult-assisted take-off but arrested recovery) adaptation of the Russian Su-33 Flanker-D, modified for the Chinese Navy’s upcoming Fujian aircraft carriers with electromagnetic catapults. (Picture source: Weibo)

The Shenyang J-15T Flying Shark incorporates various structural and functional modifications suited to catapult-assisted launches and arrested recoveries, differentiating it from the J-15B, which is limited to ski-jump carriers. Equipped with reinforced front landing gear, a launch bar, and a tail hook, the J-15T is designed to withstand the stresses of catapult launches. This adaptation allows it to operate from both ski-jump and catapult-equipped carriers, providing increased versatility in line with the PLAN's evolving carrier capabilities. Visual changes include a straight wingtip pylon designed for the PL-10 air-to-air missile, a new IRST (infrared search and track) system located at the nose, and a modified diffraction HUD (head-up display) in front of the cockpit. The aircraft is also identifiable by its grey-white radome and modified exhaust nozzles from the WS-10B “Taihang” engines, which replace the AL-31 engines previously supplied by Russia. These modifications indicate a shift towards domestic production of key components.

The J-15T variant was first reported in 2014 as a CATOBAR (catapult-assisted take-off but arrested recovery) adaptation of the Russian Su-33 Flanker-D, modified for PLAN’s upcoming Type 003 Fujian aircraft carriers with electromagnetic catapults. This variant achieved its maiden flight in July 2016, followed by ground-based electromagnetic catapult tests in November at the Huangdicun Naval Air Base, an indicator of China’s increasing interest in integrating catapult-assisted launches with its carrier fleet.

A recent video of the J-15T, initially posted on China’s Weibo platform, provided an early public look at this version, showcasing its reinforced landing gear and other modifications needed for catapult launches. The footage highlighted several of the J-15T’s features, including operational PLAN grey paint, calibration markings for test data collection, and distinctive structural elements on the landing gear. One of the aircraft featured in the video, a prototype with a yellow primer, is reportedly retired from active testing, indicating its extended use in the development process.

Further distinguishing itself from the earlier J-15 models, the J-15T includes updated avionics, which may incorporate an AESA (Active Electronically Scanning Array) radar, along with weight reductions in the airframe. These changes suggest increased capacity for payloads, enabling the aircraft to carry additional fuel, weaponry, or equipment. Reports indicate the J-15T could support SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) missions with long-range air-to-air missiles, potentially broadening its role within the PLAN’s carrier air wing. A minor but interesting detail is that the J-15T’s wingtip pylons for the PL-10 air-to-air missiles are slightly reprofiled compared to the standard layout seen on the J-16, hinting at adjustments tailored for carrier-based operations.

The J-15T may operate in a future mixed air wing alongside stealth drones and other carrier-capable aircraft. Analysts speculate that these could include the Shenyang J-35A, a new stealth fighter model which, along with the J-15T, may complement the PLAN’s carrier operations. A potential two-seat J-15D variant, configured for electronic warfare with jamming pods on its wingtips, similar to those on the U.S. Navy’s EA-18G Growler, has also undergone testing, reflecting PLAN’s exploration of various carrier-based aircraft configurations to enhance electronic warfare capabilities. If produced, this electronic warfare variant may share CATOBAR compatibility with the J-15T.

With four aircraft carriers planned, including the Fujian, the PLAN’s requirements for carrier-capable aircraft are increasing. The J-15T, alongside support and advanced strike variants, may meet the PLAN’s demand for versatile, adaptable naval aircraft. The development of the J-15T and other carrier-based aircraft indicates an ongoing focus on expanding and modernizing the PLAN’s air wing capabilities.