China’s J-35 becomes world’s first catapult-launched stealth jet

China’s J-35 has become the world’s first catapult-launched stealth fighter jet, achieving this milestone aboard the Fujian aircraft carrier, which is equipped with an Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS). The PLA Navy announced that the Fujian successfully completed its first catapult-assisted takeoff and arrested landing training involving three key aircraft types: the J-15T heavy fighter, the J-35 stealth fighter, and the KJ-600 early warning aircraft. These tests demonstrate the carrier’s capability to handle multiple carrier-based aircraft using electromagnetic launch and recovery systems, laying the groundwork for full deck operations and integration of a new air wing into carrier formations. The Fujian, China’s third aircraft carrier and the first domestically built with electromagnetic catapults, marks a significant advancement compared to earlier carriers like the Liaoning and Shandong, which use ski-jump ramps. The J-35, a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed for air superiority and strike missions, combined with the high