China has continued solidifying its position as a maritime power with its second active aircraft carrier, Shandong, achieving “all-weather” combat capabilities.
Since its commissioning in December 2019, the Shandong carrier has transitioned from coastal operations to distant-sea missions, showcasing improved operational efficiency and technological advancements. Reports highlight the carrier’s enhanced consecutive sortie readiness, enabling round-the-clock operations in complex environments. It is primed for both offensive strikes during wartime and deterrence during peacetime.
According to Chinese state media, the Shandong carrier strike group demonstrated its prowess during exercises in April 2023. Positioned east of Taiwan, the group executed air defense and anti-submarine missions in coordination with forward-deployed forces, further cementing its strategic significance.
Chinese officials have emphasized the vessel’s ability to launch swift countermeasures, as evidenced by an incident where fighter jets took off to intercept a foreign reconnaissance aircraft. The jets forced the intruding aircraft to retreat, exemplifying the carrier’s readiness for real-world provocations.
A notable development is the integration of J-35 fighter jets alongside the J-15 “Flying Shark,” creating a potent combination akin to the U.S. Navy’s F-35 and F/A-18E/F pairing. This enhancement reduces the deployment time of aircraft, reinforcing China’s maritime dominance.
Shandong has also been a testing ground for resolving over 100 operational challenges and implementing numerous technical innovations. From structural adjustments to advanced joint-force training, the carrier has evolved into a vital asset for China’s long-range combat systems.
The Shandong carrier has participated in significant joint exercises, such as the dual-carrier drill alongside its sister vessel, Liaoning, in late 2024. These far-sea training exercises marked a first in China’s naval history, demonstrating the country’s expanding ability to coordinate large-scale maritime operations.
The carrier has moved beyond coastal operations, undertaking distant-sea missions that reflect its advanced operational capabilities. During such missions, the Shandong crew showcased their multi-disciplinary expertise, overcoming logistical and technical challenges through cross-specialty training. This approach has produced a cadre of elite leaders and technical specialists within the PLAN.
China’s enhanced naval capabilities raise concerns for the West, particularly the United States and its allies. With the world’s largest naval force by vessel count, China’s advancements could escalate tensions, as demonstrated by joint Chinese and Russian air patrols near Alaska earlier in 2024.
As one report noted, Shandong’s all-weather combat readiness “translates into more problems for the West,” emphasizing its potential to disrupt the balance of power in strategic regions, including the Arctic and the South China Sea.
Named after Shandong Province, the carrier’s achievements symbolize China’s naval ambitions. From firing missiles and launching fighter jets to conducting record-breaking aircraft takeoffs and landings, the Shandong carrier has established itself as a key player in maritime operations.
In a recently released video by CCTV, the Shandong was shown firing guns, launching missiles, and supporting fighter jet operations, demonstrating its technical capabilities.
