The highly anticipated J-35A medium-sized multi-role stealth fighter jet is set to make its debut at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, scheduled from November 12 to 17 in Zhuhai City, southern China.
Developed by the Shenyang Aircraft Design and Research Institute of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and manufactured by the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC), also under AVIC, the J-35A incorporates an integrated design that blends advanced aerodynamics, structural engineering, and cutting-edge stealth technology.
Though the aircraft has yet to be fully unveiled to the public, experts say the new fighter jet represents the latest trends in aviation technology and is expected to rival others in its class globally.
Military expert Li Li highlighted the significance of the J-35A joining the ranks of the Chinese Air Force, alongside the J-20 stealth fighter. “With the introduction of the J-35A, the Chinese Air Force will be among the few in the world to possess two types of stealth fighters,” Li said. “No other country will be able to match having two stealth fighters like this for a long time.”
Fu Qianshao, another military analyst, emphasized the J-35A’s advanced capabilities designed to meet the evolving needs of the Chinese military. “The first key characteristic of a stealth fighter is stealth itself, which includes several aspects: radar stealth, infrared stealth, optical stealth, acoustic stealth, and so on,” he explained. “From the design and appearance of the J-35A, as well as the materials and coatings it uses, I personally believe that the J-35A’s stealth performance currently ranks first in the world.”
A notable feature of the J-35A is its folding wings, designed for aircraft carrier operations. Zhang Xinmin, former deputy captain of the Chinese Air Force’s Bayi Aerobatic Team, noted that the aircraft is highly adaptable to harsh conditions, such as high-salt and high-humidity environments. “The folding wings are advantageous for maximizing the number of aircraft that can be stored on an aircraft carrier,” Zhang said. “We anticipate that the fifth-generation fighter jet will soon be operating from our carriers.”
Wang Yanan, editor-in-chief of Aerospace Knowledge, remarked that the new fighter jet symbolizes the forefront of aviation technology. “Generally speaking, an aircraft displayed statically at air shows is usually already in service with the military,” Wang said. “However, the J-35A’s dynamic display indicates that the aircraft is still in the process of being integrated into service and is a relatively new piece of equipment.”
In addition to the J-35A, the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition will showcase the HQ-19 surface-to-air missile weapon system and a new attack reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle, according to Niu Wenbo from the Air Force equipment department. The event promises a variety of activities, including aerobatic displays, offering a platform for China to exhibit its latest advancements in aerospace technology.
Reference(s):
Multi-role stealth fighter J-35A to make debut at 15th China Airshow
cgtn.com
