China has publicly unveiled J-15T—an upgraded variant of its Shenyang J-15 carrier-borne fighter jet designed for electromagnetic catapult launches—to be showcased at the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition or Airshow China 2024 to be held from November 12 to 17. The appearance follows the recent public debut of the land-based medium-weight stealth fighter Shenyang J-35A of the PLA Air Force.
J-15T is to be deployed on Fujian aircraft carrier of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). Apart from electromagnetic catapult-assisted takeoff, the J-15T, which is equipped with domestically produced WS-10 engines instead of the Russian-made AL-31F engines found in J-15s, also has Short Take-Off, Barrier Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) and Catapult Assisted Take-Off Barrier Arrested Recovery (CATOBAR) capabilities.
The fighter jet can withstand the stresses of catapult launches as it has a launch bar, reinforced front landing gear, and a tail hook. The electromagnetic catapult-assisted takeoff capability of the fighter jet enables it to carry heavier payloads of fuel and weapons during missions.
J-15T reportedly incorporates advanced avionics, potentially including an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which improves target acquisition and tracking capabilities.
The cockpit of J-15T includes a new wide-angle holographic head-up display (HUD) and a bar to ensure the safety of the pilot during catapult launches. According to reports, the fighter jet can support suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) missions with its long-range air-to-air missiles.
The first prototype flight of J-15T took place in July 2016. Since then, the variant has undergone extensive testing. This new variant is expected to significantly boost PLAN's powers as they can operate alongside stealth drones and other carrier-capable aircraft.