China’s J-35A stealth fighter, eagerly anticipated for years, finally made its public debut at this week’s Zhuhai Air Show. The sleek, land-based fighter jet—designed and developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation—marked the 75th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) with an air display. Despite the reveal, details about its capabilities remain scarce, and military analysts are still speculating about its potential.
What We Know About the J-35A’s Capabilities
The J-35A and its naval variant, the J-35, are China’s latest step toward bolstering air power, especially as the country expands its aircraft carrier fleet. Both models aim to establish air superiority, but the specifics of their stealth capabilities and performance remain under wraps. Military analyst Collin Koh noted that secrecy shrouds much of the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) military technology, making it hard to fully assess the J-35’s capabilities. However, China’s steady progress in aviation technology suggests that this fighter shouldn’t be underestimated.
Similar in shape to the US-made F-35, the J-35A’s design minimises radar visibility. Yet, it’s unclear if China has matched the radar-absorbing coatings and advanced communication systems found in the F-35.
Engine Technology: A Key Component for the J-35A
One of the major challenges China faces in developing advanced fighter jets is engine technology. China has historically relied on Russian engines, but recent advances suggest that the J-35A may use domestically designed WS-13 engines, with potential upgrades to the more powerful WS-19 engines. Efficient engines offer significant advantages, including better range, greater speed, and the ability to carry more gear. As aviation expert Peter Layton remarked, air shows reveal little beyond the airframe’s appearance, with engine specifications often remaining unknown.
Implications for China’s Aircraft Carrier Program
The J-35 is crucial for China’s ambition to expand its power beyond its borders. As China’s aircraft carrier program advances, a carrier-capable version of the J-35 is expected to play a vital role. While China’s three carriers are still in the training phase, a successful J-35 variant could boost the PLA Navy’s power projection in the future, especially in regions beyond East Asia.
The six-day Zhuhai Air Show, which runs from 12-17 November, is expected to showcase further developments in Chinese aerospace, with foreign military observers keeping a close watch on the J-35A’s debut.
(With Inputs from Reuters)
