OVERVIEW: The J-15B Flying Shark is a twin-engine, single-seat, 4.5 generation carrier-based multirole fighter developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation for the People’s Liberation Army Navy Air Force (PLANAF). Introduced in 2022, it is a CATOBAR-capable variant of the J-15 adapted for electromagnetic and steam catapult launch operations aboard China’s Type 003 carrier Fujian.

DETAILS: The J-15B is derived from the Su-33-based J-15 airframe but modified for CATOBAR operations with reinforced nose gear, updated flight control systems, and Chinese WS-10 engines, reaching speeds near Mach 2.0. It retains 12 hardpoints and features a Chinese AESA radar (exact model undisclosed), new-generation digital RWR, internal ECM, IRST, and a fully glass cockpit with multifunction displays and an improved helmet-mounted sight. Unlike the original STOBAR J-15, the J-15B is optimized for catapult compatibility and higher takeoff weights, enabling full fuel and weapon load launches. It supports advanced munitions such as PL-8, PL-15, YJ-83K, KD-88, and LS-6 guided bombs, and is compatible with external pods for targeting or electronic warfare.

“J” indicates “Jianjiji” (fighter), and “15B” designates the upgraded, catapult-capable model. The J-15B differs from earlier J-15s through catapult-specific structural changes, avionics modernization, and expanded multirole payloads, making it the PLAN’s most capable fixed-wing naval fighter as of 2022.

TYPE: Carrier-based multirole fighter

FUNCTION: The J-15B is used for carrier-based air superiority, long-range strike, and fleet defense. CATOBAR compatibility allows heavier payloads and extended mission profiles, critical for full-spectrum carrier air operations.

NOTE:
IOC: Su-27K (1995 Russia), J-15 (2013 China), J-15B (2022 China)
Manufacturer: Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (China)
Operators: China
Conflict used in: None

SOURCE:
China Aerospace Studies Institute (CASI): https://www.airuniversity.af.edu/CASI ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://armstrade.sipri.org ; Military Balance (IISS) ; Flight Global World Air Forces 2023 ; Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft ; U.S. Department of Defense China Military Power Report