In June 2026, the Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning deployed to the western Pacific, drawing analysis from defense observers regarding its air wing composition. Footage released by CCTV shows folded-wing carrier-based aircraft parked along the angled flight deck. A launch bar on the front landing gear indicates these aircraft are the updated J-15T variant, designed for catapult-assisted takeoff. Based on visual examination of the deck, all visible fighters appear to be J-15Ts.

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