China’s air force is set to unveil its newest addition to the stealth fighter fleet, the J-35A, marking a significant step in the nation’s growing military capabilities. The fighter will make its first public appearance at an upcoming air show in Zhuhai, giving the world a close look at a highly anticipated piece of advanced aviation technology.
Revealed in an image at a press conference, the J-35A has sparked interest for its advanced capabilities and design, positioning China as a strong contender in stealth technology alongside the United States. If officially commissioned, China would join the US as the only countries to have two types of stealth fighter jets.
Built for air combat and capable of air-to-surface attacks, the J-35A adds to China’s robust military modernization. It follows the J-20, which entered service in 2017 and has been progressively strengthening China’s air power, with 70 new J-20s added just this past year. Chinese military experts believe the J-35 could eventually operate on aircraft carriers, enhancing China’s air and sea combat capabilities.
Stealth fighters like the J-35A are designed to evade radar detection, giving them a critical advantage in missions where remaining undetected is key. This technology brings China closer to matching US stealth capabilities, like those found in the F-22 and F-35, although full details on the J-35A remain sparse.