In the ever-evolving race for aerial superiority, a new name has begun to emerge from the East—China’s J-35 stealth fighter jet. While Western defense circles have long focused on the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II as the peak of fifth-generation aircraft design, the J-35 is rapidly gaining attention. With increasing visibility in Chinese military parades, satellite imagery, and defense expos, this new jet could represent a significant shift in the balance of air power between China and the United States.
🧱 What is the J-35 Fighter?
The Shenyang J-35, sometimes referred to as the FC-31 Gyrfalcon, is China’s next-generation stealth fighter. It is a twin-engine, carrier-capable aircraft that appears to blend characteristics of both the F-22 Raptor’s air superiority focus and the F-35’s multirole versatility. Unlike its predecessor, the J-20, which was primarily developed by Chengdu, the J-35 is being developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and is expected to serve naval aviation forces operating from Chinese aircraft carriers. Initial prototypes, previously called FC-31, appeared a decade ago, but recent developments suggest the jet is being pushed into an operational role with upgraded designs and systems.
⚙️ Design and Stealth Features
The J-35’s airframe shows clear stealth-oriented design elements. It incorporates angled surfaces, internal weapons bays, and radar-absorbing materials to reduce its radar cross-section. Its smooth fuselage and twin-tail layout are reminiscent of the F-22, while its nose and canopy design closely resemble that of the F-35. This design strategy indicates China's attempt to synthesize proven U.S. stealth configurations. However, questions remain about the maturity of China's stealth coatings and manufacturing tolerances, which are vital for true stealth performance. While China has closed the technological gap, experts argue that the J-35 may still be more visible on radar than its U.S. counterparts.
🚀 Engine Power and Performance
Early versions of the FC-31 prototype were underpowered, relying on Russian-supplied RD-93 engines. However, the J-35 is now rumored to be equipped with WS-13 or WS-19 engines, which are more powerful and specifically developed to meet the needs of fifth-generation stealth fighters. Still, thrust vectoring capabilities—which significantly improve agility in dogfights—are not yet confirmed in J-35s. In contrast, the F-22 includes full 2D thrust-vectoring, making it nearly unbeatable in close-range engagements. The F-35, while not as nimble as the Raptor, compensates with integrated sensor fusion and electronic warfare dominance.
🧠 Avionics and Sensor Fusion
A defining feature of fifth-gen fighters is sensor fusion—the seamless integration of radar, infrared tracking, and other data sources into a single pilot interface. The F-35 remains the global leader in this area, offering unmatched pilot situational awareness and electronic warfare capability. While China has made major strides in radar and avionics, U.S. systems still benefit from decades of combat experience, battlefield-tested integration, and advanced software ecosystems. The J-35 is likely equipped with an AESA radar and IRST (Infrared Search and Track), but its true effectiveness depends on how well these systems work together and communicate with broader command networks.
🎯 Weapons Capacity and Mission Roles
The J-35 is expected to carry a mix of long-range PL-15 air-to-air missiles, PL-10 short-range missiles, and precision-guided bombs, all housed in internal bays to preserve stealth. This mirrors the F-22 and F-35, which also rely on internal weapons bays to maintain low radar profiles. Unlike the F-22, which is primarily an air superiority fighter, the J-35 seems to embrace a multirole combat philosophy, similar to the F-35 Lightning II. This means it could handle air-to-air combat, ground strikes, and maritime operations—all while remaining stealthy.
⚓ Naval Capabilities: A Critical Edge?
One major advantage of the J-35 is its naval compatibility. It is reportedly designed for operations aboard China’s Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier, which uses electromagnetic catapults (EMALS) similar to U.S. systems. The F-22 is an Air Force asset and not carrier-capable. However, the F-35C variant was specifically built for carrier operations and has already been deployed with the U.S. Navy. The J-35’s success at sea could give China a stealth air presence far beyond its borders—especially in disputed regions like the South China Sea or near Taiwan. It is here that the aircraft’s true strategic value may be realized.
🌐 Strategic Implications and Power Projection
China’s push for indigenous stealth fighters is not just about air superiority—it’s a political and strategic signal. The J-35 reflects Beijing’s intent to challenge U.S. dominance in Asia-Pacific skies. By fielding a carrier-compatible stealth jet, China narrows the gap in global force projection—a capability the U.S. has long held as a military monopoly. With growing numbers of aircraft carriers, surveillance drones, and long-range missile systems, China’s ability to field a full-spectrum combat air network is expanding rapidly. The J-35 is a critical piece in that emerging puzzle.
🆚 F-22 and F-35: Who Holds the Advantage?
| Feature | F-22 Raptor | F-35 Lightning II | J-35 Stealth Fighter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Role | Air Superiority | Multirole | Multirole (Carrier-based) |
| Stealth Rating | Superior | Excellent | Good (Developing) |
| Thrust Vectoring | Yes | No | Not confirmed |
| Sensor Fusion | Excellent | World-Class | Moderate-Advancing |
| Combat Experience | Extensive | Extensive | None |
| Weapons Bays | Internal | Internal | Internal |
| Carrier Compatible | No | Yes (F-35C) | Yes |
While the F-22 remains the most maneuverable and stealth-optimized aircraft, it is no longer in production. The F-35 continues to dominate multirole stealth missions with unmatched software, sensors, and network warfare tools. The J-35 is clearly a threat—but not yet a peer. Its full combat potential will depend on engine refinement, software integration, and pilot training standards—all areas where the U.S. currently leads.
In conclusion, both China and the U.S. are already preparing for the sixth-generation of aerial combat, which will involve AI-powered drone swarms, hypersonic weapons, and adaptive stealth skins. The U.S. Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program aims to replace the F-22 within a decade, while China is rumored to be working on the J-25 or J-28, a sixth-gen stealth platform. The J-35 may not surpass the F-22 or F-35 today—but it is a stepping stone toward a more formidable Chinese air force in the next decade.
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