China Unveiling J-35A Stealth Fighter Jet

China’s unveiling of the J-35A fighter jet at the Zhuhai Airshow could signify a turning point in international military aviation.

At a Glance

China’s J-35A is being unveiled this week..
The airshow, which was set to start this Tuesday, marks the 75th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force.
China’s advancements raise concerns about U.S. air superiority in the Pacific.
The J-35’s mass production could alter the global power balance.

China Unveils New Stealth Fighter

China is unveiling a new stealth fighter jet and attack drones at Airshow China in Zhuhai. The event coincides with the 75th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), marking a pivotal year. The new J-35A stealth fighter resembles the US F-35, and its unveiling suggests confidence in its development. If operational, China would join the U.S. as the only countries with two active stealth fighters.

The J-15T naval jet and HQ-19 missile system are also debuting at the airshow this week, showcasing China’s comprehensive military capabilities. China is modernizing its aviation amidst tense international relations, focusing on improving its flying forces in response to regional issues like Taiwan. With a dedicated drone zone at the event, China is a leader in drone technology and exhibits its growing prominence in modern warfare.

Implications of Mass Production

Reports suggest China may have the ability to mass-produce the J-35s. As China’s military production is supported by civil-military fusion, its rapid production capabilities are noteworthy. The Global Times notes that Chinese military aviation expert Fu Qianshao that the J-35A and the heavy J-20 could take on complementary roles, but that the J-35A is likely to be cheaper and easier to produce in bulk.

China and Russia have strengthened military relations, showcased by the feature of Russia’s Su-57 stealth fighter at the airshow. This partnership may grant Beijing access to advanced military technology. A report from Sofrep suggested that for the US, China’s ability to produce the J-35 rapidly could significantly threaten U.S. air superiority, especially in the Pacific, a concern amplified by its advancements in the J-20 and the WS-15 engine.

China's new J-35A stealth fighter jet will be displayed for the first time next week at the country's biggest civil and military air show, a biennial event where Beijing showcases its expanding aerospace industry https://t.co/vk0UEXWfWW

— Reuters (@Reuters) November 8, 2024

US Air-Power Advantage and Concerns

The United States maintains a significant air-power advantage with its robust fleet of F-35 jets. The J-35A’s introduction does not immediately upend this advantage. While China introduces these new advancements publicly, the details of the J-35A’s full capabilities remain largely undisclosed. Dr Collin Koh of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore said, per Reuters, “Because of the black box typically surrounding PLA miltech developments, we won’t be too certain of the J-35’s performance.”

These developments illustrate the shifting landscape of military power and pose questions about future technological and military strategy between global powers.