Beijing — China has lifted the curtain on its latest stealth fighter jets, the J-35 and J-35A, showing the aircraft to the public for the very first time. The move highlights Beijing’s growing confidence in its homegrown military technology and its ambition to rival Western air power.
Footage aired on Sunday by China Military Bugle, a media outlet linked to the Chinese army, revealed hangars full of J-35 and J-35A jets being assembled at Shenyang Aircraft Company Limited, part of the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). The unpainted aircraft, shown in different stages of production, offered a rare glimpse into one of the country’s most closely guarded defence projects.
A New Era for China’s Navy and Air Force
The J-35 is China’s first stealth fighter designed to take off and land on an aircraft carrier. It recently carried out its first electromagnetic catapult-assisted launch and recovery tests aboard the Fujian, the country’s newest and most advanced carrier.
The J-35A, a land-based version of the same jet, was also featured in the footage. According to the report, it uses a special aerodynamic design that enhances both its stealth and combat capabilities. Military observers say the aircraft is built not just to evade radar, but also to detect and counter enemy stealth fighters — a sign of how China is preparing for more complex air combat scenarios.
The J-35A’s main job, according to Chinese state media, will be to secure air superiority, but it can also carry out ground and naval strikes. Its missions could include intercepting enemy fighters and bombers, targeting air defences, and protecting Chinese airspace and maritime zones.
Growing Military Confidence
The unveiling comes as China continues to expand its high-end fighter fleet, joining the J-20 Mighty Dragon as part of its new generation of stealth aircraft. Analysts say these developments reflect Beijing’s determination to match U.S. and allied air power in the Asia-Pacific — especially as regional tensions rise over Taiwan and the South China Sea.
