China's third aircraft carrier, the CNS Fujian, has embarked on its first voyage into the South China Sea for extensive tests and training operations, marking its longest journey to date. This deployment signifies a crucial step towards its imminent commissioning, with expectations that it will soon integrate carrier-borne fighter jets.

• The CNS Fujian is China's first carrier equipped with an electromagnetic catapult, a critical component for launching advanced fighter jets.
• Senior Captain Leng Guowei, spokesperson for the People’s Liberation Army Navy, stated the operation is a regular arrangement and not aimed at any specific target.
• The Navy has recently unveiled all combat aircraft designated for the Fujian, including the J-35 stealth fighter and KJ-600 early-warning and control plane.