During the Paris Air Show, one of the world’s largest aeronautical events, China presented for the first time outside the country a scale model of the J-35A fighter jet, its latest fifth-generation aircraft.
Developed by the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the J-35A is the land-based version of the J-35, originally designed for aircraft carrier operations. The aircraft was displayed by the state-owned CATIC as part of China’s strategy to boost military exports. Although the J-20, China’s other fifth-generation fighter, is not available for sale, it was also present at the exhibition.
China has been focusing its efforts on increasing the presence of its fighter jets in the international market, particularly among developing countries in Asia and the Middle East. Pakistan, for example, has already confirmed a Chinese offer to acquire 40 units of the J-35. In addition, since 2022 the country has operated the J-10CE fighter, the export version of the J-10C, which was reportedly used successfully in confrontations with India, including the downing of two French Rafale jets, according to international media reports.
Another model featured at the Chinese stand was the JF-17, developed in partnership with Pakistan. With around 120 units in operation, the jet has also been exported to Azerbaijan, Myanmar, and Nigeria. Although India claims to have shot down one of these aircraft, Pakistan disputes this and claims to have used hypersonic missiles launched from a JF-17 to destroy an Indian S-400 defense system — a claim denied by New Delhi.
The presence of these models at the Paris Air Show highlights China’s attempt to establish itself as a global supplier of advanced military technology.
Source: South China Morning Post | Photo: X @exposinchina | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
🚁🛩️China’s advanced fighter jet J-10CE makes its debut and steals the spotlight at the 55th #ParisAirShow. A large model of the J-10CE, equipped with the cutting-edge PL-15E long-range air-to-air missiles, is showcased at the booth. Right beside it stands the model of China’s… pic.twitter.com/InHs2iiTT1
— China Expos (@exposinchina) June 17, 2025
