A Chinese Navy J-15 fighter jet crashed during a training exercise on March 15, the South China Morning Post reported.
The aircraft reportedly crashed in an open field in Hainan province. The pilot ejected safely and survived. An investigation has been launched into the cause of the crash.
The Navy is organizing efforts to eliminate the consequences of the disaster, the report says.
The incident occurred in the South China Sea, where in recent years there have been confrontations between Chinese and Philippine ships around disputed reefs and islands. In February, the Philippine Coast Guard condemned the dangerous maneuvers of a Chinese naval helicopter.
What is known about China's J-15 fighter?
China's Shenyang J-15 deck fighter, often called the "Flying Shark", is based on Chinese aircraft carriers. The aircraft entered service in 2013. The J-15 fighter, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, is based on the Soviet Su-33. China purchased a prototype from Ukraine in the early 2000s. According to 2022 data, the unit price of the J-15 aircraft is at least $61 million.
Regardless of its original origin, the J-15 has been upgraded with improved avionics, radar systems, and weapons, making it a multi-role fighter.
Powered by two WC-10 engines, the aircraft has a combat range of about 1,500 kilometers and a payload capacity of more than 6.5 tons. It can carry a combination of air-to-air, air-to-surface, and anti-ship missiles.
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