China Testing Stealth Fighter Jet J-35 for Its 3rd Aircraft Carrier: Report
By Sawyer Finch
2 Min Read
China Testing Stealth Fighter Jet J-35 for Its 3rd Aircraft Carrier: Report
China is reportedly testing its J-35 stealth fighter jet for deployment on its third aircraft carrier, according to a recent military report. This marks a significant step in the country’s effort to enhance its naval aviation capabilities, further positioning China as a dominant player in the global military landscape.
J-35: China's Response to Advanced Global Fighters
The J-35, a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, has been in development for several years. Its design and capabilities are often compared to the U.S. F-35 fighter jet, although the J-35 is tailored specifically for China's growing fleet of aircraft carriers. The J-35 is expected to serve as a key asset in China’s naval strategy, particularly as it aims to project power across the Indo-Pacific region.
Sources close to the Chinese military state that the testing of the J-35 is being carried out in anticipation of its integration with the country’s third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, which is currently under construction. This new carrier is expected to feature advanced electromagnetic catapult systems, similar to those used by the U.S. Navy, allowing for quicker and more efficient launches of aircraft, including the J-35.
Strategic Implications of the J-35’s Deployment
Military experts believe that the deployment of the J-35 on China's third aircraft carrier will significantly enhance the country's power projection capabilities. With this addition, China’s navy will possess a stealth fighter jet that can operate from sea-based platforms, enabling long-range strike missions, intelligence gathering, and air superiority missions.
“The development of the J-35 and its planned deployment on China’s newest aircraft carrier is a clear signal of the country’s intent to challenge the naval supremacy of the U.S. and its allies in the Indo-Pacific,” said military analyst Li Wei. “This could tilt the balance of power in regional conflicts, especially as tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea continue to rise.”
Part of a Larger Military Modernization Plan
The J-35’s testing is part of China's broader strategy to modernize its military forces. In recent years, the country has invested heavily in upgrading its navy, air force, and missile capabilities. This includes the development of the J-20, another stealth fighter designed for the Chinese air force, and the deployment of sophisticated missile systems to defend its maritime interests.
While details about the J-35 remain limited, reports suggest that the jet features cutting-edge radar evasion technology, advanced avionics, and a weapons system capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously. Its stealth features, combined with its carrier-based operational capabilities, make it a formidable addition to China’s expanding military arsenal.
Global Response and Concerns
The development of the J-35 has sparked concern among military officials in the United States and other Western countries. As China continues to expand its military influence, its advancements in stealth technology and naval power could alter the strategic balance in critical regions such as the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.
China has not officially commented on the specifics of the J-35’s deployment, but military experts believe that the stealth fighter could be operational on the Fujian by 2025. If successful, this will solidify China’s position as one of the world’s leading military powers, capable of projecting air and naval superiority well beyond its shores.
