Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the critical role of the aircraft carrier's takeoff and landing support team, referred to as "rainbow people," in ensuring the operational efficiency and combat readiness of the Shandong aircraft carrier, emphasizing their contributions to the successful launch and recovery of carrier-based aircraft [1][10][20]. Group 1: Operational Efficiency - The Shandong aircraft carrier has successfully supported nearly 10,000 safe takeoffs and landings of carrier-based aircraft, showcasing the importance of rapid and precise operations on the flight deck [5][20]. - The takeoff and landing support team operates under high-pressure conditions, with their performance measured in seconds, reflecting the need for speed and accuracy in military operations [5][11]. - The team has undergone thousands of rigorous drills to optimize the takeoff process, ensuring that every movement becomes a precise muscle memory [10][11]. Group 2: Training and Development - The Shandong carrier has benefited from the experience and training of personnel from the Liaoning carrier, with many crew members being selected from the latter to enhance operational capabilities [10][11]. - The support team includes a high proportion of university-educated soldiers, contributing to innovative ideas and improvements in operational processes [11][13]. - Continuous training and adaptation to new combat environments have been essential for improving the efficiency of aircraft operations [10][18]. Group 3: Real-World Application - The Shandong carrier has participated in various military exercises and operations, demonstrating its capabilities in complex maritime environments, including the South China Sea and the Western Pacific [23][25]. - The support team's ability to conduct night operations and respond to unexpected challenges is crucial for maintaining combat readiness [16][18]. - The integration of advanced equipment and high-quality personnel has significantly enhanced the operational effectiveness of the Shandong carrier [13][25].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant advancements in the operational capabilities of the aircraft carrier Shandong, particularly focusing on the efficiency and effectiveness of the flight deck support team in ensuring the safe takeoff and landing of carrier-based aircraft. Group 1: Operational Efficiency - The flight deck support team has successfully ensured the safe takeoff and landing of nearly 10,000 carrier-based aircraft, leading to a continuous increase in aircraft sortie rates and setting new records for China's aircraft carrier combat capabilities [1][3]. - The team has undergone thousands of rigorous drills to optimize the takeoff process, resulting in faster and more frequent aircraft launches [3]. Group 2: Speed and Precision - The time required to replace the pulley group has been reduced from two days with manufacturer assistance to just a few hours through independent operations [5]. - The replacement of aircraft takeoff assist devices has been compressed from hours to minutes, showcasing a significant leap in operational capability [5]. Group 3: Strategic Developments - The Shandong has participated in various significant military exercises and operations, including crossing the Taiwan Strait in December 2020, advancing to the South China Sea in May 2021, and engaging in the "Joint Sword" exercise in April 2023 [5]. - The operational capabilities of China's aircraft carrier strike group have entered a new phase, with upcoming dual-carrier exercises planned for October 2024 and June 2025 [5].