China unveils new J-35 fighter jet and strengthens the air power of its aircraft carriers

English Posted on  —by Carro e motos
China unveils new J-35 fighter jet, boosting the air power of its aircraft carriers
China unveils new J-35 fighter jet, boosting the air power of its aircraft carriers (X @RT_com)

China has officially showcased the production of its new fifth-generation carrier-based fighter, the J-35, designed to equip the aircraft carriers of the People’s Liberation Army Navy.

Images released by the state broadcaster CCTV show the aircraft in assembly at Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC), still without final paint and stealth coating. The model, expected to enter service in 2025, is already conducting flight tests from the Fujian aircraft carrier, with other units at various stages of production.

Derived from the FC-31 project, the J-35 features a stealth design with twin engines and canted twin tails, reminiscent of the American F-35. The first prototype flew in 2021 with WS-21(H) engines developed in China. Since then, satellite images have revealed the fighter being tested on the Fujian and Liaoning carriers, demonstrating the technological advancement of Chinese naval aviation and strengthening its maritime combat capability.

Equipped with AESA radar, an optical targeting system, and internal weapon bays, the J-35 is considered the world’s second next-generation carrier-based fighter, just behind the American F-35. While the total planned units have not been disclosed, estimates indicate production exceeding 100 aircraft, with potential export versions.

The program complements the development of the nuclear Type 004 aircraft carrier, which, with a displacement of up to 120,000 tons, promises to establish China as a global naval power.

Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @RT_com | This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team

Back to top