China’s Navy starts testing a next-generation fighter jet on one of its aircraft carriers

With the testing, China’s Navy prepares to take a major step forward in its carrier air-wing capabilities.

The Liaoning, China’s first aircraft carrier, features a Soviet-style ski-jump ramp for launching aircraft, which puts limits on what types of planes can operate on the carrier and what specific load outs can be carried.

The CNS Fujian, China’s third aircraft carrier, made a major technological jump to an advanced catapult launch system akin to the US Navy’s new Ford-class carriers, meaning Fujian can launch aircraft with heavier loads for sorties.

Experts and former Navy personnel previously told Business Insider the Fujian would allow China to launch more modern aircraft it’s currently working on, such as the carrier variant of the J-35.