The continuous 2024 Zhuhai Air Show, China’s top aircraft museum, has become the stage for showcasing the government’s growing military capabilities, with the debut of the J-35A stealth fighter drawing special attention. The aircraft, which shares similarities with the USF-35, is set to become a cornerstone of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force ( PLAAF ).
The J-35A’s look at the annual event in Zhuhai, southeastern China, signalled its immediate entry into functional service. This marks a major growth for China, which, alongside the United States, may now run two fifth-generation cunning warrior types—making it the next state to do so. The J-35A, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, is positioned as a lighter, more economical equivalent to China’s flagship J-20, designed for air supremacy operations with a extra hit position. Its architectural style is similar to that of the American F-35, too.
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Unlike the larger, long-range J-20, the J-35A is designed to be more cost-effective, offering a solution for both the PLAAF and potentially the People’s Liberation Army Navy ( PLAN ). The aircraft’s diversity makes it a valuable resource, probably aiding the military’s growing ship fleet, including the Fujian aircraft carrier, which is poised to add China’s naval forces immediately.
Experts suggest that the J-35A’s introduction may accelerate China’s fifth-generation fighter procurement, expanding the fleet of J-20s while ensuring the country’s continued dominance in air warfare. Analysts anticipate an export version of the J-35AE to appeal to foreign customers, especially those looking for advanced stealth fighters without the high prices of the US models.
Despite being in the early stages of deployment, the J-35A’s role in enhancing the PLAAF’s operational capacity in contested environments, particularly over regional flashpoints like Taiwan, is expected to be significant.
Alongside the J-35A, the air show also featured other cutting-edge technologies, including the HQ-19 anti-ballistic missile system and a range of unmanned combat vehicles. One of the standout developments from the 2024 Zhuhai Air Show is the J-35A’s promising future, both domestically and internationally, cementing China’s position as a leading force in advanced military aviation.
