China is set to showcase its latest stealth fighter, the Shenyang J-35A, at the Zhuhai Airshow 2024, scheduled from November 12 to 17. The J-35A is a land-based variant of the J-35, originally designed as a carrier fighter for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN).
The new J-35A is expected to be marketed to China’s Air Force and key international buyers like Pakistan, representing a significant advancement in China’s fighter aircraft technology.
This variant builds on the earlier FC-31/J-31 platform, initially aimed at export markets as an alternative to the U.S. F-35. The J-35A features design updates like a sleeker canopy and a locally developed Guizhou WS-13 engine.
Following its maiden flight in 2023, the J-35A is anticipated to be lighter than its carrier-based counterpart, with minor structural differences tailored for ground operations.
Though specific details about the J-35A’s capabilities are scarce, earlier FC-31 specifications suggest it boasts a payload of 8,000 kg, including an internal weapon bay, a speed of Mach 1.8, and a range of 1,200 km.
The aircraft likely incorporates advanced radar and electronic warfare systems, including AESA radar, an electronic countermeasures suite, and a helmet-mounted display.
China’s pursuit of the J-35A underscores its goal to capture the global defense market, providing an alternative for countries that wish to avoid Western or Russian military constraints. With this development, China asserts its status as a military and aerospace competitor, second only to the United States in producing multiple stealth fighter models for land and naval use.