Defense & Military
China Deploys J-35A Stealth Fighter in PLAAF: Air Power Shift
China’s induction of the J-35A stealth fighter enhances military capabilities, impacting Indo-Pacific security dynamics and global air power balance.
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.
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
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Is the J-35A officially confirmed to be in PLAAF service? How does the J-35A compare to the U.S. F-35? Is the J-35A carrier-capable? Sources: Financial Times, Reuters, Wikipedia, Army Recognition, CNBC TV18
China’s J-35A Stealth Fighter: Global Air Power Dynamics
China’s Fifth-Generation Fighter Strategy
From J-20 to J-35A: A Strategic Leap
Carrier Compatibility and Naval Expansion
Technological Parity or Imitation?
Global Implications and Strategic Reactions
Regional Security Dynamics
Pakistan’s Position: Uncertainty and Speculation
A Broader Military Modernization Agenda
Conclusion
FAQ
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: 19fortyfive
Defense & Military
Indonesia Orders 12 Pilatus PC-24 Jets for Air Force Modernization
Indonesia signs contract for 12 Pilatus PC-24 jets and LOI for 24 PC-21 trainers to enhance Air Force training and transport capabilities.
This article is based on an official press release from Pilatus Aircraft.
The Indonesian Ministry of Defense has officially selected the Pilatus PC-24 to modernize the Indonesian Air Force’s transport pilot training, air transport, and liaison capabilities. According to a recent press release from Pilatus Aircraft, a firm contract for 12 PC-24 “Super Versatile Jets” has been signed. The agreement was facilitated by PT E-System Solutions Indonesia, an authorized defense contractor acting on behalf of the Ministry of Defense.
In addition to the jet acquisition, the parties simultaneously signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the supply of 24 Pilatus PC-21 advanced turboprop trainers. This parallel agreement signals a comprehensive overhaul of the Indonesian Air Force’s training pipeline, providing a tiered approach to preparing military aviators for complex modern missions.
For a nation comprising an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, logistical reach and operational flexibility are paramount. The Pilatus press release notes that the PC-24’s unique ability to operate from short, unpaved runways was a decisive factor in the Ministry of Defense’s selection, ensuring greater accessibility to Indonesia’s most remote regions.
The contract for the 12 PC-24 aircraft includes a comprehensive support package. According to Pilatus, the deal encompasses ground support equipment, specialized tools, spare parts, pilot training, and ongoing technical support directly from the manufacturer’s headquarters in Stans, Switzerland. The agreement also includes options for the procurement of additional aircraft in the future.
The PC-24 is uniquely positioned for government and military-aircraft applications. The manufacturer highlights that the aircraft is certified for single-pilot operation and features a standard pallet-sized cargo door. Crucially, it is approved for use on unpaved, dirt, and grass runways. These design elements allow the aircraft to rapidly transition between instrument flight rules (IFR) pilot training, VIP transport, and remote liaison duties.
Operating across thousands of islands presents unique logistical hurdles for the Indonesian military, as many remote outposts rely on short or poorly maintained airstrips. The rough-field capability of the PC-24 directly addresses this challenge, expanding the operational footprint of the Air Force without requiring extensive infrastructure upgrades.
“We appreciate the trust placed in Pilatus by the Indonesian Ministry of Defense. This program marks the beginning of a long-term relationship, and our priority is to support Indonesia in putting the fleet into service smoothly.”, Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus
The simultaneous LOI for 24 PC-21 turboprop trainers highlights a strategic shift in how Indonesia prepares its military pilots. The PC-21 package will include ground-based training equipment, spare parts, and technical support. Industry research indicates that combining high-performance turboprops with light jets mirrors the tiered training architectures currently utilized by NATO and other advanced Asia-Pacific air forces. Defense analysts note that introducing the PC-24 into the training fleet allows student pilots to experience jet performance, multi-engine operations, and complex avionics earlier in their careers, all while maintaining lower operational costs compared to traditional frontline military jets.
“The selection by the Indonesian Air Force emphasizes the growing interest of government operators in our PC-24 Super Versatile Jet. We remain focused on supplying solutions to facilitate various missions ranging from training to transport.”, Ioannis Papachristofilou, Vice President of Government Aviation at Pilatus
The Pilatus acquisition is part of a much larger, multi-layered modernization effort within the Indonesian military. Supplementary industry research reveals that Indonesia has been aggressively upgrading its rotary, heavy transport, and combat fleets. In September 2024, the country ordered four Airbus H145 helicopters for military training and light search-and-rescue. Furthermore, Indonesian crews are currently training to operate the Airbus A400M Atlas heavy transport aircraft. In February 2026, Indonesia also signed LOIs for Leonardo M-346 Master trainer jets and Russian-made MiG-29s to establish an “aggressor squadron” for advanced combat wargames.
The intermediary for the Pilatus contract, PT E-System Solutions Indonesia, is emerging as a highly active player in the region’s defense procurement. According to industry reports, the company is a subsidiary of UAE-based E-System Solution FZ. Beyond the Pilatus agreement, the contractor was also involved in the recent Leonardo and MiG-29 LOIs. In late 2025, the company acquired a significant interest in TRUVELO Specialised Manufacturing, a South African arms manufacturer, and its CEO recently announced plans to purchase 14 MD light helicopters to develop a hybrid manned-unmanned aviation ecosystem.
We view the Indonesian Ministry of Defense’s selection of the PC-24 as a strong indicator of a growing global trend toward utilizing versatile, commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) business jets for specialized military roles. Indonesia joins a notable list of military operators adopting the PC-24; the French Navy recently leased three units for IFR training, and the Qatar Emiri Air Force currently operates two. By leveraging the PC-24’s unpaved runway certification, Indonesia is effectively bridging the gap between a traditional VIP transport jet and a rugged tactical airlifter, maximizing the utility of its defense budget while addressing the specific geographic realities of its archipelago.
What is the Pilatus PC-24? The Pilatus PC-24 is a light business jet developed in Switzerland, marketed as a “Super Versatile Jet.” It features a standard cargo door and is uniquely certified to operate from short, unpaved, dirt, and grass runways.
How many aircraft is Indonesia acquiring? The Indonesian Ministry of Defense has signed a firm contract for 12 PC-24 jets, with options for more. Additionally, they have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for 24 Pilatus PC-21 turboprop trainers.
Why did Indonesia choose the PC-24? According to Pilatus, the aircraft’s ability to take off and land on short, unpaved runways was a decisive factor, as it allows the Indonesian Air Force to access remote islands across the 17,000-island nation for transport, training, and liaison missions.
Introduction
Modernizing Indonesia’s Air Capabilities
The Geographic Imperative
A Layered Approach to Pilot Training
Broader Defense Procurement Context
The Role of PT E-System Solutions Indonesia
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Sources
Photo Credit: Pilatus
Defense & Military
USAF Deploys F-35A Lightning II to Misawa Air Base Japan
The U.S. Air Force permanently stations F-35A Lightning II jets at Misawa Air Base, enhancing the 13th Fighter Squadron’s capabilities in Japan.
This article is based on an official press release from the U.S. Air Force.
The U.S. Air Forces has officially begun its transition to fifth-generation airpower at Misawa Air Base in northern Japan. On March 28, 2026, the first F-35A Lightning II Military-Aircraft assigned to the 13th Fighter Squadron touched down at the installation, marking a significant milestone in the Department of the Air Force’s ongoing modernization efforts.
According to the official press release, the arrival of these advanced tactical aircraft represents the permanent stationing of the F-35A in the region. The deployment is designed to reinforce the United States’ commitment to the defense of Japan and to sustain peace through strength across the Indo-Pacific theater.
The transition follows months of extensive preparation by airmen across the 35th Fighter Wing. The Air Force noted that these preparations included formal Training, infrastructure upgrades, and logistical coordination to ensure the squadron can generate and sustain combat-ready aircraft immediately upon arrival.
The 13th Fighter Squadron, known historically for its “Wild Weasel” mission, specializing in the suppression of enemy air defenses, is transitioning from the legacy F-16 Fighting Falcon to the F-35A. The U.S. Air Force release states that the F-35 excels at operating and surviving in advanced threat environments, bringing next-generation stealth and fully integrated Avionics to the fight.
“The F-35 was tailor made to be a weasel platform,” said Lt. Col. John Widmer, 13th Fighter Squadron commander, in the official release. “Where legacy platforms performed the Wild Weasel mission with bolted-on sensors or weapons, the F-35 was built from the ground up as a sensor platform with the sensor fusion and quarterback capability we bring to the fight.”
Widmer further emphasized in the release that the stealth capability and advanced sensor package allow pilots to manage the entire spectrum of enemy threats, providing a distinct tactical advantage over adversaries.
Misawa Air Base’s forward position makes it a critical hub for maintaining regional stability. The permanent stationing of U.S. F-35s in northern Japan is expected to multiply the collective defense capabilities of the U.S.-Japan alliance.
According to the Air Force statement, the transition increases overall fighter capability, deepens interoperability with allied forces, and enhances deterrence across the military’s largest area of responsibility. “Bringing the F-35 to Misawa underscores our long-standing commitment to Japan and the region,” stated U.S. Air Force Col. Paul Davidson, 35th Fighter Wing commander. “It strengthens our ability to respond quickly and operate seamlessly with our Japanese partners.”
We view the permanent deployment of F-35A Lightning IIs to Misawa Air Base as a highlight of a broader strategic shift by the U.S. military to position its most advanced assets directly in the Indo-Pacific. By replacing legacy F-16s with fifth-generation stealth fighters, the U.S. Air Force is significantly upgrading its capabilities in a region characterized by increasingly sophisticated anti-access/area denial networks. The emphasis on the F-35’s “sensor fusion” capabilities suggests that these aircraft will not only serve as strike platforms but also as critical data nodes, sharing battlefield intelligence with Japanese and other allied forces in real-time.
The first F-35A Lightning IIs assigned to the 13th Fighter Squadron arrived at Misawa Air Base on March 28, 2026, according to the U.S. Air Force.
The “Wild Weasel” mission traditionally refers to the suppression and destruction of enemy air defenses. The 13th Fighter Squadron is upgrading from legacy platforms to the F-35A to execute this mission with advanced stealth and sensor capabilities.
Upgrading the “Wild Weasel” Mission
Strategic Implications for the Indo-Pacific
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the F-35As arrive at Misawa Air Base?
What is the “Wild Weasel” mission?
Sources
Photo Credit: Department of War
Defense & Military
Volatus Aerospace and Sentinel R&D Partner on Canadian Interceptor UAV
Volatus Aerospace and Sentinel R&D sign a non-binding MOU to develop a Canadian interceptor UAV platform supporting sovereign defense capabilities.
This article is based on an official press release from Volatus Aerospace Inc.
Volatus Aerospace Inc. has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Sentinel R&D Inc. to develop a Canadian-developed interceptor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform. According to a company press release, the collaboration aims to support Canada’s sovereign UAV capabilities and align with evolving defense and security requirements.
The agreement brings together Sentinel’s expertise in advanced composite UAV structures and airframe engineering with Volatus’s background in systems integration, autonomy software, and global commercialization. We note that this partnership reflects a broader industry push toward domestic aerospace manufacturing and technological independence.
Under the newly established framework, the two companies will divide responsibilities to leverage their respective strengths. The official press release states that Sentinel is expected to handle the UAV platform engineering, airframe design, and composite manufacturing. Meanwhile, Volatus will take the lead on systems integration, mission systems, autonomy development, testing, and commercialization activities.
The companies also intend to explore opportunities for scalable Canadian production. This aligns with priority capability areas identified in Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy, which emphasizes the need for sovereign industrial capacity in key defense technology domains.
“Volatus continues to execute on its strategy of combining Canadian manufacturing, autonomy software, and operational capability into an integrated aerospace platform, building an integrated aerospace and defence capability spanning manufacturing, autonomy, and operations,”
said Glen Lynch, Chief Executive Officer of Volatus Aerospace, in the press release. Lynch added that the collaboration reinforces the company’s investments in advanced manufacturing initiatives, including its Mirabel aerospace manufacturing facility and the V-Cortex AI autonomy platform.
The non-binding MOU serves as a foundational step for engineering cooperation and potential future commercial agreements between the two Canadian aerospace firms. While the agreement does not create binding purchase obligations, it sets the stage for further technical and commercial discussions.
“Volatus brings strong integration, autonomy, and operational expertise that complements Sentinel’s platform engineering capabilities. We believe this collaboration represents a meaningful opportunity to strengthen Canadian unmanned systems innovation and manufacturing capability,”
stated Dr. Katheron Intson, Chief Executive Officer of Sentinel R&D, according to the release. We observe that the partnership between Volatus Aerospace and Sentinel R&D highlights a growing trend among defense and aerospace companies to localize supply chains and manufacturing capabilities. By focusing on a Canadian-developed interceptor UAV platform, the collaboration directly addresses the objectives of Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy. The integration of Sentinel’s modular, payload-agnostic fixed-wing drone designs with Volatus’s V-Cortex AI autonomy platform could position the joint effort as a competitive offering in both domestic and allied defense markets. However, as the current MOU is non-binding, the long-term impact will depend on the successful transition from engineering cooperation to formalized commercial production.
According to the press release, the companies intend to work together to advance a Canadian-developed interceptor UAV platform that aligns with evolving defense and security requirements.
Sentinel R&D is expected to provide UAV platform engineering, airframe design, and composite manufacturing expertise. Volatus Aerospace will lead systems integration, mission systems, autonomy development, testing, and commercialization.
No. The press release notes that the Memorandum of Understanding is non-binding and establishes a framework for engineering cooperation, subject to further technical and commercial discussions.
Volatus Aerospace and Sentinel R&D Forge Strategic UAV Partnership
Framework for a Sovereign Interceptor UAV
Combining Engineering and Autonomy
Strengthening Domestic Innovation
Leadership Perspectives
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of the Volatus and Sentinel collaboration?
What will each company contribute to the partnership?
Is the agreement between Volatus and Sentinel legally binding?
Sources
Photo Credit: Volatus Aerospace
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