Those 4 Words: Trouble for the F-35? China’s J-35A stealth fighter caused a significant stir among aviation experts when the aircraft was first unveiled.
Developed by the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC), the J-35A is a twin-engine, all-weather, multi-role combat aircraft designed for both air superiority and surface strike missions.
This aircraft is part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its military prowess and challenge the dominance of other global powers, particularly the United States.
But is China’s new stealth aircraft as powerful as it says?
J-35A: China’s Second Stealth Fighter
The J-35A’s journey began with the FC-31 Gyrfalcon, a stealth aircraft prototype that first flew on October 31, 2012. Initially developed as a privately funded venture by SAC, the FC-31 aimed to attract potential export customers.
However, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), especially the PLA Navy, soon took an interest in the project. This led to further development and modifications, resulting in the J-35A, which officially debuted ahead of the 2024 China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition.
The J-35A is the second Chinese fifth-generation fighter, following the Chengdu J-20. This makes China the only country other than the United States to field two types of stealth fighters.
The aircraft has undergone significant redesigns to improve its capabilities, including the addition of a catapult launch bar and folding wings for carrier operations.
What We Know About the J-35A
Little is known about the true capabilities of this fighter. What we do know is that the J-35A is designed to be a versatile platform capable of performing a wide range of missions. It features an internal weapons bay, advanced engines, and a stealthy, blended body design eerily similar to that of the US’ F-35.
The aircraft’s stealth capabilities are a key focus, with efforts to reduce its radar cross-section (RCS) through both design and materials. However, questions remain about the effectiveness of its radar-absorbing materials and avionics.
One of the most notable aspects of the J-35A is its potential for carrier-based operations. The aircraft is optimized for catapult-assisted takeoff (CATOBAR), making it suitable for deployment on China’s newest aircraft carriers, such as the CV-18 Fujian.
This capability significantly enhances China’s power projection and naval aviation capabilities.
The development of the J-35A is part of China’s broader strategy to challenge U.S. dominance in the Pacific and beyond. With the rapid expansion of its navy and air force, China aims to establish itself as a major military power capable of projecting force far from its shores.
The J-35A, with its advanced stealth capabilities and carrier compatibility, is a critical component of this strategy.
Experts have raised concerns about the potential impact of the J-35A on regional security dynamics. The aircraft’s capabilities could shift the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region, prompting neighboring countries to enhance their own military capabilities in response.
Additionally, the J-35A’s development has been linked to allegations of cyber-espionage, with reports suggesting that Chinese hackers may have stolen design information from the U.S. F-35 program.
A Threat to the US?
The warplane is still in the flight testing phase, with its first flight taking place on September 26, 2023. Despite this, the aircraft has already demonstrated significant potential and is expected to enter service with both the PLA Air Force and the PLA Naval Air Force in the near future. The introduction of the J-35A will likely lead to further advancements in China’s stealth fighter technology and operational capabilities.
Looking ahead, the J-35A is expected to play a crucial role in China’s military strategy. Its deployment on aircraft carriers will enhance China’s ability to project power and maintain a presence in key strategic areas.
Additionally, the J-35A’s multirole capabilities will make it a valuable asset for a wide range of missions, from air superiority to ground attack.
The Real J-35A Problem
Whether or not the J-35A is a good as it appears to be, it still represents a threat to US air superiority, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Its development underscores China’s ambitions to project power and influence beyond its borders.
While the warplane may not match the overall capabilities of U.S. stealth fighters, its deployment could complicate U.S. military planning and necessitate adjustments in strategy to maintain a technological edge. Thus, while not an immediate threat, the J-35A is a factor that the U.S. must consider in its long-term defense planning.
China’s J-35A Through the Years
China J-35 Fighter. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
J-35A Fighter from China. Image Credit: Chinese Military
J-35 flying at Zhuhai Airshow 2024.
J-35 Stealth Fighter. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
J-35 vs. F-35 Comparison. Image by Twitter User RupprechtDeino.
J-35 Fighter. Image: Creative Commons.
China’s J-35A stealth fighter is a significant advancement in the nation’s military aviation capabilities. With its advanced design, stealth features, and carrier compatibility, the J-35A is poised to become a key component of China’s military strategy.
As the aircraft continues to undergo testing and development, its impact on regional and global security dynamics will be closely watched by military analysts and policymakers alike.
The J-35A’s development highlights China’s growing aggressive ambitions and capabilities in the field of military aviation. As the only country other than the United States to field two types of stealth fighters, China is trying to position itself as a formidable force in the realm of air superiority.
The warplane’s future prospects and operational history will undoubtedly shape the strategic landscape in the future.
About the Author: Isaac Seitz
Isaac Seitz, a 19FortyFive Defense Columnist, graduated from Patrick Henry College’s Strategic Intelligence and National Security program. He has also studied Russian at Middlebury Language Schools and has worked as an intelligence Analyst in the private sector.
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