The grand “September 3” military parade has just concluded, showcasing dazzling new weaponry. Yet only days later, Chinese military enthusiasts may witness another major milestone—the official commissioning of China’s first electromagnetic catapult aircraft carrier, the Fujian.
According to the China Maritime Safety Administration (MSA), the Shanghai MSA issued a navigation warning stating that a large vessel would transit through the deep-water channel exit of the Yangtze River on September 10, with traffic control in effect.
Soon after, the Qionghai (Qinglan) MSA released another navigation warning, declaring that from September 9 to September 11, specific areas of the South China Sea would be closed for “aerial and maritime flight tests.”
Based on the Fujian’s sea trial schedule, the timing suggests that its official commissioning into the PLA Navy is imminent. The Yangtze River traffic control likely relates to the Fujian, with speculation pointing to a September 10 commissioning date.
As for the South China Sea flight test warning, it likely involves the testing of the new J-35 stealth carrier-based fighter jet.
The logic is clear: once the Fujian enters service, its new generation of carrier-based aircraft must also undergo rigorous testing. As China’s first electromagnetic catapult carrier, the Fujian requires thorough preparation. Testing J-35 jets in realistic maritime conditions ensures reliability while showcasing combat readiness.
Moreover, the September 3 parade—limited to land displays—could not fully demonstrate China’s naval power. Conducting simultaneous carrier trials and fighter jet tests offers another form of strength demonstration, signaling that the Fujian enters service combat-ready.
But why choose the South China Sea for these flight tests? Recent developments offer clues.
On August 13, the U.S. destroyer USS Higgins illegally entered waters near China’s Huangyan Island. In early September, the Philippines and Australia staged a so-called “joint patrol” in the South China Sea. Around the same time, the Philippines attempted to resupply the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at Ren’ai Reef, sparking direct confrontation with Chinese vessels.
Placing possible Fujian-related flight tests in the South China Sea sends a pointed message: provocations will not be tolerated. It warns the Philippines and external forces to stop creating incidents, or they will face consequences.
Even if the tests are unrelated to the Fujian, they still reflect China’s firm stance—patience and restraint should not be mistaken for weakness. The PLA has ample means to respond, and no amount of foreign backing will alter the outcome: provocations in the South China Sea will fail.
References:
- China Maritime Safety Administration navigation warnings (Shanghai & Qionghai)
- PLA Navy open-source reports on Fujian carrier sea trials
- Media coverage of South China Sea tensions (August–September 2025)
