Did China Test the New 'J-35' Fighter on an Aircraft Carrier?

China has revealed that it tested a new type of warplane, likely the J-35, earlier this year aboard its first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning.

This is according to a recent report by state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV). While the report did not provide detailed information about the aircraft, speculation has pointed to the long-anticipated J-35, a next-generation carrier-based stealth fighter jet.

Zhang Naigang, a member of the aviation support team on the Liaoning, flew the new aircraft during the tests. Zhang, who previously flew the first J-15 carrier-borne fighter jet on November 23, 2012, described the experience, remarking that the clear day of the flight echoed the conditions of the J-15’s debut.

Experts, cited by the Global Times, interpreted the CCTV report as confirmation that a new carrier-based aircraft is ready for service in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. The new warplane is reportedly operational across all three of China’s aircraft carriers: the Liaoning, Shandong, and the recently launched Fujian, which is equipped with electromagnetic catapult systems.

While the specifics of the aircraft were not disclosed in the CCTV report, earlier photos from Hong Kong-based media wenweipo.com showed what appeared to be a full-scale model of a J-35 fighter jet covered in waterproof cloth during tests on the Liaoning. Chinese media reports claim that the J-35’s capabilities may surpass those of its U.S. counterpart, the F-35, and could be deployed alongside the existing J-15 in complementary roles.

Hong Kong's South China Morning Post also linked the new warplane to the J-35, noting that China is developing the jet—alternatively referred to as the J-31—for carrier operations. This new aircraft would operate in mixed formations with the J-15, which has been in service since 2013.

Additionally, the CCTV report gave viewers a glimpse into the interior of the Fujian aircraft carrier. During aviation support training on the Fujian’s flight deck, crew members highlighted the importance of ensuring smooth transitions between ramp-assisted and catapult-assisted takeoffs for pilots. The Fujian, which has been undergoing sea trials since May 1, is anticipated to begin aircraft landing and takeoff tests soon, generating keen interest among military observers.

In March 2023, the Chinese People's Liberation Army - Navy (PLA-N) on Tuesday released a teaser video of its J-35.

The J-35 may not have the short or vertical take-off and landing (VTOL), like the F-35B but the catapult launch and arrested landing like the F-35C. The PLA-N's third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, is being equipped with electromagnetic aircraft launch system so it is likely that the J-35 will be equipped to take advantage of this feature.