New Delhi: China has begun sea trials of its most advanced aircraft carrier, Fujian, marking a significant leap in the country’s naval capabilities. With the induction of Fujian, China now operates three aircraft carriers, compared to India’s two and the United States’ eleven. While India and China rely on conventionally powered carriers, the U.S. fleet remains unmatched with its nuclear-powered platforms.
Fresh satellite imagery confirms that Fujian has been spotted for the first time outside its port in the South China Sea, sending ripples across the Indo-Pacific. China’s second carrier, Shandong, has also been observed active at sea. Experts believe the simultaneous presence of Fujian and Shandong indicates a strategic posture shift by Beijing—one closely monitored by India.
Why Fujian’s Deployment Matters
The deployment comes at a time when India is strengthening its naval presence and aspiring to become a key stabilizing power in the Indo-Pacific. The Fujian stands out due to its Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS)—a cutting-edge technology used only by the U.S. until now.
Its current movement towards crucial sea routes such as the Malacca Strait, Andaman & Nicobar region, and India’s extended surveillance arc signals strategic signaling by China. Any activity from the South China Sea into the Indian Ocean is under India’s continuous observation.
Fujian’s Advanced Capabilities
Fujian is China’s first indigenously designed and built aircraft carrier. Its biggest technological advantage is the EMALS, which allows:
-
Launching fighter jets with higher fuel and weapons payload
-
Smooth, shock-free takeoff
-
Capability to launch heavy aircraft as well as lightweight drones
-
Faster sortie generation rates
Reports indicate that during naval trials, Fujian successfully launched the J-35 stealth fighter and the KJ-600 airborne early-warning aircraft—demonstrating a significant leap in aviation operations capability.
India’s Vigilance and Preparedness
India has enhanced its maritime surveillance network, including upgrades to the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC). Through platforms like INS Vikrant, INS Vikramaditya, P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, and long-range ocean surveillance systems, India tracks China’s naval movements in real time.
Under Mission SAGAR, India continues to coordinate with friendly nations to improve maritime security across the region.
Analysts believe the activation of Fujian is more than a show of might—it is a strategic signal to India and its Indo-Pacific partners about China’s growing naval footprint. This could open a new chapter in the region’s power balance.
What Exactly Is an Electromagnetic Catapult?
Traditional aircraft carriers use steam catapults to launch aircraft. Fujian’s EMALS, however, uses electromagnetic force instead of steam power. This offers several major advantages:
-
Controlled acceleration: Smooth, consistent launch without sudden jolts
-
Versatility: Capable of launching heavy fighter jets, stealth aircraft, surveillance planes, and light drones alike
-
Efficiency: Faster aircraft launch cycles and lower maintenance requirements
-
Higher combat readiness: Enables more aircraft to take off in shorter intervals
Currently, only the U.S. (USS Gerald R. Ford) and China operate EMALS-equipped carriers. India’s existing carriers rely on the ski-jump STOBAR system, where aircraft take off under their own power. EMALS is expected to be a key element in India’s future carrier programs, especially for launching stealth fighters and heavier aircraft.
Strategic Implications for Indo-Pacific Security
China has recently intensified its naval and survey activities near key choke points like the Malacca Strait and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. India remains watchful of moves that could impact regional maritime security and cooperative naval exercises.
Fujian’s operational debut signals China’s intent to expand its naval influence from the South China Sea into the Indian Ocean—a development that may reshape the strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific.
As China’s naval rise accelerates, India’s focus remains on strengthened surveillance, enhanced partnerships, and sustained modernization to maintain stability across the region.
