J-35A Stealth Multi-Role Fighter Set for Premiere at 15th China Airshow
The J-35A, a medium-sized multi-role stealth fighter jet that has generated considerable anticipation, is scheduled to make its debut at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition.
Engineered by the Shenyang Aircraft Design and Research Institute of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China and produced by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, which is also part of AVIC, the J-35A features an integrated design that harmonizes aerodynamics, structural integrity, and stealth technology.
While the aircraft has not yet been fully unveiled to the public, it is anticipated to embody the cutting-edge advancements in aviation technology. Experts have already indicated that the J-35A's enhanced capabilities will position it as a competitor against others in its category.
Military expert Li Li highlighted that with the addition of the J-35A to the Chinese Air Force's combat fleet alongside the J-20 stealth fighter, China will be among the few nations worldwide to possess two distinct types of stealth fighters. "No other country will be able to match having two stealth fighters like this for a long time," he noted.
Fu Qianshao emphasized the J-35A's robust design, stating that it is a versatile medium-sized stealth fighter tailored to address the evolving requirements 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 remarked. "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."
This stealth aircraft features folding wings optimized for aircraft carrier operations. Former deputy captain of the China Air Force's Bayi Aerobatic Team, Zhang Xinmin, noted that the J-35A is particularly adaptable to challenging environments, such as those with high salt and humidity. He also pointed out that the folding wings provide an advantage in maximizing the storage capacity on aircraft carriers: "We anticipate that the fifth-generation fighter jet will soon be operating from our carriers," he said.
Wang Yanan, editor-in-chief of Aerospace Knowledge, remarked that the new fighter jet embodies the latest trends in aviation. He explained that aircraft typically showcased statically at air shows are usually already in service; however, the J-35A's dynamic display signifies that it is still being integrated and represents a newer generation of equipment.
The 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition is set to take place from November 12-17 in Zhuhai City, southern China, where a range of activities, including aerobatic performances, will be featured.
In addition to the J-35A, the exhibition will also introduce the HQ-19 surface-to-air missile system and a new attack reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle for the first time, as mentioned by Niu Wenbo from the Air Force equipment department at a recent press conference.
Thomas Evans contributed to this report for TROIB News