14-11-2024 (ZHUHAI) China has officially announced plans to deploy its cutting-edge J-35 stealth fighter alongside the existing J-15 on its aircraft carriers, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s naval aviation capabilities.
The confirmation came from Sun Cong, a prominent aviation engineer at the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), during the prestigious Zhuhai air show. Sun, who serves as chief designer of the J-15, revealed that both aircraft types would operate in tandem from China’s carrier fleet.
The announcement was underscored by an impressive display at AVIC’s “maritime missions” exhibition, where models of both the J-35 (also known as the J-31 or FC-31 Gyrfalcon) and J-15 were showcased side by side, offering visitors a glimpse of China’s future carrier-based air power.
Developed by AVIC’s subsidiary Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the J-35 represents China’s second venture into fifth-generation fighter technology, following the larger J-20. Despite its more compact frame, military analysts note that the J-35 reportedly incorporates more sophisticated stealth features and advanced avionics systems. The aircraft’s arsenal is said to include medium-range air-to-air missiles and supersonic air-to-surface weapons.
