The J-35A, a new fifth-generation stealth fighter, and the J-15T aircraft carrier mark China’s military modernization at the Zhuhai Airshow.
At the Zhuhai Airshow 2024, China unveiled the J-35A, a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed to join the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Complementing the J-20, China becomes the second country in the world, after the USA, to operate two separate stealth fighters. The show also featured the J-15T, designed for carrier-based operations, and a two-seat version of the J-20S, designed to incorporate drone control. These advances strengthen China’s military capabilities, particularly in naval air operations and electronic warfare.
Features and objectives of the J-35A
The J-35A, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, is a multi-purpose stealth fighter for the PLAAF. Equipped with WS21 engines (before integrating the future WS19), it is designed to rival aircraft such as the American F-35 Lightning II. With its advanced stealth capability, the J-35A is designed for interception, air superiority and precision strike missions.
The first J-35A models are in the operational test phase. Their adoption by the PLAAF underlines China’s desire to diversify its stealth platforms, complementing the J-20, which has already produced over 300 units.
This diversification gives China a strategic advantage: a fleet capable of a wide range of missions, optimizing both air and sea operations. Mass production of the J-35A, if confirmed, could strengthen regional power projection, particularly in the South China Sea.
The J-15T and the expansion of naval aviation capabilities
The J-15T, presented at the Zhuhai Airshow, marks a step forward for Chinese aircraft carriers. Equipped with a catapult system, it is compatible with the new Type 003 class carriers, which feature electromagnetic catapults. This configuration enables faster, more efficient deployment of on-board fighters, increasing their range and payload.
The J-15D variant, dedicated to electronic warfare, provides jamming and disruption capabilities for opposing radars. Compared with the American EA-18G Growler, this version underlines the importance attached by China to electronic operations in modern conflicts. These aircraft could play a key role in scenarios involving amphibious operations or securing contested areas.
The J-20S: a two-seater stealth pioneer
The J-20S, the world’s first two-seat version of a stealth fighter, attracted a great deal of attention at the show. The second seat is designed to control drones in manned-unmanned teaming missions. This capability would enable a pilot to manage several drones simultaneously, increasing the tactical scope of each mission.
With at least four prototypes identified, the J-20S illustrates a trend towards multi-role platforms. These aircraft are capable of complex missions, such as electronic jamming, reconnaissance and precision strike coordination. The future integration of UAVs into this system could represent a turning point in Chinese air operations.
Strategic implications and technological challenges
The rapid progress of China’s military aviation is strengthening its capabilities in strategic regions such as the Taiwan Strait. However, several challenges remain. Current engines, such as the WS21, remain less efficient than their Western equivalents, limiting aircraft range and efficiency. In addition, the reliability and durability of these aircraft will have to be proven in operational deployments.
The new platforms, such as the J-35A and J-15T, could also be deployed in deterrence missions, notably against US aircraft carriers or in joint exercises in the Pacific. These developments are raising concerns among regional neighbors, and reinforcing the need for the USA and its allies to modernize their own fleets.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.