Official media outlets, represented by @ChinaMil, have recently released several high-resolution images of the Liaoning and Shandong aircraft carriers. These images reveal some interesting details worth noting.
1. Long-Range Takeoff
This has been confirmed through the images, whereas previously it was only speculated based on tire marks.
The primary advantage of long-range takeoff is the increased takeoff weight. It has been estimated that, with the assistance of deck wind, the takeoff weight can approach or even match that of land-based takeoffs. Similar conclusions were drawn during the Soviet Union's test flights in the past.
In the images, especially those of the Liaoning, observe the splashes at the bow of the ship. 
This is clearly done to generate sufficient deck wind. The J-15s that have just taken off and those preparing to enter the takeoff position can be confirmed to have ample fuel. This aligns with the significant range requirements for operations in the Western Pacific. Among the aircraft visible on the deck, none can be seen with buddy refueling pods—particularly on the Liaoning, almost all are armed with missiles. Two aircraft that are not armed are partially obscured, making it difficult to see their undersides.
This is clearly done to generate sufficient deck wind. The J-15s that have just taken off and those preparing to enter the takeoff position can be confirmed to have ample fuel. This aligns with the significant range requirements for operations in the Western Pacific. Among the aircraft visible on the deck, none can be seen with buddy refueling pods—particularly on the Liaoning, almost all are armed with missiles. Two aircraft that are not armed are partially obscured, making it difficult to see their undersides.
2. Special-Purpose Helicopters
The most noticeable example is from the Shandong, where three types and four special-purpose helicopters are visible. Some of these appear to be making their public debut for the first time.
3. J-15DH
While not visible in these images, the J-15DH did make an appearance in the CCTV coverage of the military exercises near Taiwan in April. So where is the J-15DH now? Is it in the air or in the hangar?
4. Rapid and Continuous Launch
Pay attention to the J-15 that has just taken off and the blast deflector plate that is already being lowered behind it. Even with long-range takeoff, the time required is extremely short. Despite this brief interval, the Liaoning still manages to operate in parallel, compressing the launch sequence. This launch interval is sufficient to match a higher sortie rate. In other words, the sortie rate recorded by the U.S. Joint Staff is far from the ceiling of the Liaoning and Shandong carriers.
5. Pilot Training and Development
This is one of the keys to maintaining and expanding the combat effectiveness of aircraft carriers. In addition to the pilots already deployed with the Liaoning and Shandong in the Western Pacific, there are also pilots preparing for a military parade (unofficially confirmed, but widely discussed on social media platforms like Xiaohongshu). Furthermore, pilots are being trained for the carrier-based aircraft squadron of the Fujian, and the Naval Aviation University is also training a new batch. Such a tiered and well-structured pilot training program is essential for a healthy, sustainable, and growing force.
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