Sources suggest that the J-15B carrier-based fighter from the People’s Liberation Army Air Force has not yet begun testing. Zona Militar reports that an analysis of various photographs indicates that the aircraft launched from the deck of the aircraft carrier Liaoning is not the J-35 but the J-15B. They noted, “In fact, this new aircraft is identified as a J-15B based on a series of images circulating on social media.”
The J-15B is an advanced iteration of China’s Shenyang J-15 carrier fighter, currently in operation on both the Liaoning and Shandong aircraft carriers. A key enhancement in this model is its shift from a STOBAR (short takeoff but arrested recovery) to a CATOBAR (catapult-assisted takeoff but arrested recovery) system. This modification allows the J-15B to carry heavier payloads and armaments, utilizing sophisticated catapult technology similar to that found on U.S. carriers like the USS Gerald R. Ford.
China’s flagship carrier, the Fujian, is the first to integrate an electromagnetic launch system. These advancements enable the J-15B to execute more effective missions, significantly improving its combat range and payload capacity—crucial for maintaining dominance in maritime operations. The CATOBAR system also supports rapid aircraft takeoffs under challenging conditions, a capability the STOBAR configuration lacks.
The J-15B marks a significant advancement for the Chinese Navy, particularly with new-generation carriers like the Fujian. While earlier models faced challenges such as underpowered engines, the upgraded CATOBAR configuration enhances flexibility and efficiency.
According to CCTV, the J-15B began runway tests in early February this year. These tests simulate aircraft carrier conditions, indicating that the navy is already evaluating the J-15B under carrier-like scenarios. The specially constructed runways replicate the layout and dimensions of an aircraft carrier deck.
The main goal of these tests is to assess the J-15B’s performance during real carrier operations, including short takeoffs and landings with arrester wires. Such evaluations are critical, as operating from an aircraft carrier presents more complexities compared to conventional military bases due to limited maneuvering space.
The J-15B is the latest variant of China’s J-15 carrier fighter, based on Russia’s Su-33. This model features modern avionics, moving closer to the capabilities of 4.5-generation fighters. Anticipated advancements include an AESA radar, updated datalinks, passive sensors, and an electronic warfare suite, allowing for the deployment of advanced air-to-air missiles like the PL-15 and PL-10. The upgraded WS-10 engines improve performance, addressing previous issues with the J-15A’s Russian AL-31 engines.
A notable feature of the J-15B is its ability to operate from both CATOBAR and STOBAR carriers, enhancing operational flexibility. It is set to play a vital role in the Type 003 Fujian, which employs catapults for aircraft launches, enabling the J-15B to take off with greater payloads and fuel, thereby extending its operational range.
In terms of production, China intends to gradually phase out older J-15 models in favor of the J-15B. Current estimates suggest around 50 J-15A units are active, primarily on the STOBAR carriers Liaoning and Shandong. The production of the J-15B is expected to continue into the early 2030s, making it a central fighter for China’s growing carrier fleet.
While the exact production numbers for the J-15B remain uncertain, China’s ambitions for a blue-water navy with multiple aircraft carriers may see significant increases. Given its strategic focus on enhancing carrier capabilities, production could potentially exceed 100 units. The J-15B is also expected to operate alongside upcoming fifth-generation naval fighters, further strengthening China’s maritime capabilities.
