Chinese media reports indicate that China has made significant progress in developing its new naval stealth fighter jet, the J-35, which is being touted as China’s equivalent to the American F-35.
According to Global Times, quoting CCTV, “a new type of warplane was tested earlier this year on the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy’s first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning.” This aircraft is speculated to be the J-35, China’s next-generation carrier-borne stealth fighter jet. Experts stated that CCTV’s report serves as official confirmation of the aircraft’s readiness for service.
China’s aircraft carrier fleet includes the Liaoning, a modernised Soviet-era carrier, and the Shandong, an indigenously built carrier commissioned in 2019. The Fujian, China’s third carrier, is significantly larger, with a displacement of 80,000 tonnes, and is undergoing trials. It is notable as the first carrier fully designed and built in China and features an electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) similar to that used on the US Navy’s USS Gerald R. Ford.
The CCTV report also stated, “The J-35 is operational not only on the Fujian, but also on the Liaoning and Shandong,” suggesting that the aircraft is reported to be in use on these carriers. However, aside from the reports by CCTV and Global Times, there is no additional independent confirmation that the jet has officially entered service.
China’s progress with the J-35 aligns with its intent to challenge American military supremacy and regional rivals, such as India. The country also aims to operate six carriers by 2035, with the J-35 serving as a counterpart to the American F-35, while the J-20 is seen as the Chinese equivalent to the American F-22.
Additionally, China is developing an air force version called the J-31, which is being marketed as a cost-effective alternative to the F-35. Pakistan is confirmed to be purchasing the J-31, and Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in acquiring the new stealth fighter.
The J-35, a twin-engine stealth fighter designed for aircraft carriers, first flew as the FC-31 in 2012. It features advanced stealth technology, a sleek design, and is powered by two WS-13 engines, reaching speeds of up to Mach 1.8. The jet carries a range of weapons, including air-to-air missiles like the PL-15 and air-to-ground missiles such as the CJ-10, significantly boosting China’s carrier-based air power.
A message for the Indian navy
The Indian Navy operates two carriers: the Vikramaditya, a modified Soviet-era carrier, and the Vikrant, an indigenously built vessel. Both deploy the MiG-29K jet, which faces limitations due to its limited numbers and outdated technology.
In response, India is procuring 26 Rafale M jets from France as a stopgap measure before the introduction of the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF). Deliveries of the Rafale M are expected to begin in 3-4 years after the contract signed, with the Indian Navy planning to finalise this deal within the current fiscal year.
China’s advancements with the J-35 underscores the need for the Indian Navy to modernise its carrier-based air power to maintain regional competitiveness. The advancement of China’s naval capabilities, particularly with the J-35, could impact the balance of naval power in the region, highlighting the urgency for India to enhance its own naval forces.