New Chinese Stealth Fighter J-35A to Debut at Airshow China 2024

The Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) announced on Tuesday that its new multi-role stealth fighter, the J-35A, will make its debut at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, known as Airshow China 2024.

This announcement was made during a press conference held in Beijing to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the PLAAF.

Colonel Niu Wenbo from the PLAAF's equipment department confirmed that the J-35A is a domestically developed aircraft designed primarily for air combat operations but also capable of conducting air-to-surface attacks.

At a press conference in Beijing, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) announced that the new multi-role stealth fighter jet,

J-35A, will debut at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China) later this year.

The J-35A is a multi-role stealth fighter developed by AVIC, designed for air superiority and air-to-surface attacks. Expected to incorporate advanced stealth technologies like radar-absorbing materials and an internal weapons bay, the aircraft will reduce its radar signature. It is likely to feature AESA radar and advanced electronic warfare systems. Smaller and more agile than the J-20, the J-35A is optimized for close combat and dogfights, making it highly effective in short-range engagements.

J-35A vs. Other Stealth Fighters

The J-35A faces competition from China’s J-20 and Russia’s Su-57.

J-35A vs. J-20:

The J-20 is China’s flagship fifth-generation stealth fighter, designed primarily for air superiority and long-range strikes. The J-20 has larger dimensions, allowing it to carry more fuel and weapons, making it suitable for high-altitude, long-duration missions. In contrast, the J-35A is more compact and agile, likely optimized for carrier-based operations and multi-role missions. While the J-20 focuses on stealth and long-range capabilities, the J-35A is expected to prioritize maneuverability and versatility.

J-35A vs. Su-57:

The Su-57 is Russia’s first fifth-generation fighter, designed for multi-role missions, combining air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities. While the Su-57 is also stealthy and equipped with advanced sensors and avionics, the J-35A may have the edge in overall stealth and integration of electronics, as China has invested heavily in radar-absorbing materials and integrated systems. The J-35A’s smaller size also gives it better agility compared to the larger Su-57, similar to the agility of the U.S. F-35 when compared to the larger F-22.