The Chinese J-15T fighter has been seen launching from the catapult-equipped Fujian carrier with four YJ-83K anti-ship missiles. This marks a significant milestone in China's carrier aviation capabilities, overcoming previous operational constraints.
The J-15T is equipped for catapult takeoff but assisted recovery (CATOBAR) operations and can carry a heavier payload of fuel and weapons compared to its STOBAR counterparts.
The ability to launch with a heavier payload increases the anti-shipping potential of the J-15T and could also translate to additional fuel or other weapons loads, including advanced air-to-air missiles.
