China Deploys J-35A Stealth Fighter in PLAAF: Air Power Shift

China’s J-35A Stealth Fighter: Global Air Power Dynamics

China has reportedly inducted its second fifth-generation stealth fighter, the J-35A, into the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), a move that, if confirmed, would make it the only country besides the United States to operate two distinct stealth aircraft. The development underscores China’s growing ambitions in military aviation and its pursuit of technological parity with Western powers.

The J-35A, a medium-weight stealth fighter developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, has been spotted flying in formation with the J-20 and J-16D aircraft, suggesting it is now part of active PLAAF units. While official confirmation from Beijing is still pending, multiple images analyzed by defense experts and circulated by military watchers indicate that the aircraft is operational within the PLAAF’s 1st Aviation Brigade, located in the Northern Theatre Command.

This milestone not only enhances China’s strategic capabilities but also reflects a broader shift in the global balance of air power, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. It raises questions about future military alignments, technological races, and the evolving nature of air superiority in the 21st century.

China’s Fifth-Generation Fighter Strategy

From J-20 to J-35A: A Strategic Leap

The J-20, China’s first fifth-generation stealth fighter, entered service in 2017 and was designed primarily for air superiority missions. With its canard-delta configuration and twin engines, the J-20 is often compared to the U.S. F-22 Raptor. The J-35A, by contrast, is a more compact, multirole aircraft with a tailplane wing configuration, bearing visual similarities to the U.S. F-35 Lightning II.

While the J-20 is optimized for long-range engagements and air dominance, the J-35A appears to offer greater versatility, potentially including precision strike and carrier-based operations. Its design features, such as a forward-hinged canopy, Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS), and absence of a pitot tube, suggest a focus on stealth and sensor integration.

According to military analyst Richard Fisher, the induction of the J-35A would “provide a flexible platform that can operate from land bases and carriers, thereby expanding China’s tactical options.” This diversification aligns with China’s broader military modernization under the “Made in China 2025” initiative.

“China’s progression from the J-20 to a second stealth fighter reflects a maturing aviation industry and a strategic intent to diversify its fifth-generation fighter fleet to meet different operational needs.” , Elsa Kania, Center for a New American Security

Carrier Compatibility and Naval Expansion

One of the most significant aspects of the J-35A is its potential role in naval aviation. A variant of the aircraft, known simply as the J-35, is reportedly being prepared for deployment aboard China’s newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian, which is expected to be commissioned later this year. It is also believed to be compatible with the Liaoning and Shandong carriers.

China’s current carrier-based fighter, the J-15, is a derivative of the Russian Su-33 and is considered outdated by modern standards. The J-35’s folded-wing design and stealth features make it a suitable candidate for next-generation carrier operations, potentially rivaling the U.S. Navy’s F-35C.

The integration of the J-35A into both air force and naval units suggests a unified strategy to enhance joint operational capabilities. This dual-role functionality could significantly improve China’s power projection, especially in contested regions like the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.

Technological Parity or Imitation?

The J-35A’s resemblance to the U.S. F-35 has sparked debate among defense analysts. U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin noted that the aircraft appears to be modeled after the F-35, stating, “It’s pretty clear; you could put it side-by-side and see, at least, where we believe they got their blueprints from.”

However, visual similarity does not equate to performance parity. The F-35 benefits from decades of research, advanced sensor fusion, and a global logistics network. In contrast, the J-35A’s capabilities remain largely speculative due to limited public information. Key performance indicators such as radar cross-section, engine thrust, and electronic warfare capabilities are still unknown.

Nonetheless, the aircraft’s twin-engine design may offer advantages in redundancy and thrust, especially for carrier operations. The eventual development of a larger weapons bay and integration of advanced missiles like the PL-17 could further enhance its strike capabilities.

Global Implications and Strategic Reactions

Regional Security Dynamics

The potential induction of the J-35A comes amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific. China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea, its stance on Taiwan, and its military modernization have prompted concern among neighboring countries and global powers alike.

For the United States and its allies, the emergence of a second Chinese stealth fighter raises the stakes in maintaining air superiority. It may prompt accelerated procurement of next-generation systems, increased joint exercises, and deeper defense cooperation among Quad nations (U.S., India, Japan, and Australia).

India, for instance, is exploring its own stealth fighter programs and has shown interest in upgrading its aerial capabilities. The reported induction of the J-35A could influence procurement decisions and strategic partnerships across the region.

Pakistan’s Position: Uncertainty and Speculation

Pakistan was initially rumored to be acquiring the export variant of the J-35A, known as the FC-31 “Gyrfalcon.” This acquisition was seen as a counterbalance to India’s Rafale and Su-30MKI fighters. However, recent statements from Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif have contradicted earlier reports.

In an interview with Arab News, Asif stated, “We are not buying them,” dismissing the claims as media speculation. This contradicts earlier reports from Jane’s and other defense publications that suggested FC-31 deliveries were imminent and that Pakistani pilots were already training in China.

A Broader Military Modernization Agenda

The J-35A’s reported induction is part of a larger narrative of Chinese military modernization. Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, the PLA has prioritized technological self-reliance, indigenous defense production, and global military presence.

China’s investment in hypersonic weapons, cyber warfare, and unmanned systems complements its advancements in manned aviation. The upcoming military parade in September, marking 80 years since World War II victory, is expected to showcase these capabilities.

Observers believe the J-35A’s public appearance may be timed to coincide with this event, signaling not just operational readiness but also strategic messaging to both domestic and international audiences.

Conclusion

The J-35A represents a significant step forward for China’s military aviation, potentially making it the second nation after the United States to field two distinct fifth-generation stealth fighters. While official confirmation is still awaited, mounting visual evidence and expert analysis suggest the aircraft is already in active service.

As China continues to expand its air and naval capabilities, the implications for regional and global security are profound. The J-35A, whether as a carrier-based platform or a multirole air force asset, reflects Beijing’s strategic intent to reshape the balance of power in Asia and beyond.

FAQ

Is the J-35A officially confirmed to be in PLAAF service?
As of now, there is no official confirmation from Chinese state media or the Ministry of Defense. However, multiple images and expert analyses suggest it is operational.

How does the J-35A compare to the U.S. F-35?
While visually similar, the J-35A lacks confirmed specifications on stealth, avionics, and sensor fusion. It is too early to determine performance parity with the F-35.

Is the J-35A carrier-capable?
A variant known as the J-35 is believed to be designed for carrier operations and will likely be deployed aboard China’s Fujian, Liaoning, and Shandong aircraft carriers.

Sources: Financial Times, Reuters, Wikipedia, Army Recognition, CNBC TV18