Chinese PLA Navy J-15 Fighter Conducts Live Fire Exercise

China’s aircraft carrier Liaoning, also known as PLAN (People’s Liberation Army Navy) aircraft carrier Liaoning Type 001, has successfully carried out flight operations with its onboard Shenyang J-15 fighter carrier strike group. The Shenyang J-15 is the main fighter aircraft carrier utilized by the PLAN and is specifically designed for air superiority missions, strike group escort, and refueling during maritime operations.

The Shenyang J-15, often referred to as the “Flying Shark,” utilizes advanced carrier-based technologies and has undergone significant improvements since its initial introduction. With its origins stemming from the J-11B and drawing inspiration from the Russian Su-33, the T-10K-3 variant, acquired from Ukraine in 2001, was the basis for its development. However, it has since evolved, incorporating indigenous advancements and refined design features.

The Shenyang J-15 boasts a payload capacity of up to 12 tons, allowing it to carry a versatile array of weapons systems, including the YJ-83K anti-ship missiles, the PL-8 air-to-air missiles, and up to four 500 kg (1,100 lb) bombs. Its combat capabilities extend to electronic warfare and reconnaissance, enhanced by the integration of the indigenous Shenyang WS-10A engines. It also features advanced avionics, enabling it to undertake complex strike missions and air superiority tasks. With a combat radius exceeding 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles), the J-15 is capable of operating far beyond China’s territorial boundaries.

In recent maneuvers, the PLAN’s Liaoning aircraft carrier showcased its impressive air wing consisting of 36 J-15 fighters, six Changhe Z-18F airborne early warning helicopters, four Changhe Z-18J airborne refueling helicopters, and two Harbin Z-9C rescue helicopters. The fighter deck was utilized extensively, conducting over 50 sorties in a single day, further highlighting the carrier’s operational readiness.

The Liaoning’s air operations capability has also been significantly enhanced with the installation of the Type 348 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and Sea Eagle radar. This airborne surveillance system allows for extended detection ranges, improved accuracy, and superior target tracking capabilities.

China’s relentless pursuit of enhancing its aircraft carrier capabilities reaffirms its commitment to achieving maritime security and dominance in the region. The Shenyang J-15 fighter, as the carrier’s backbone, demonstrates China’s capability to deploy advanced naval aviation assets, projecting power and strategic influence across its maritime interests. With these advancements, China’s naval aviation continues to evolve, underlining its role as a major player on the global maritime stage.

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