China stealth fighters were showcased for the first time on Sunday, marking a milestone in the nation’s defense aviation capabilities. Moreover, the event highlighted the J-35 and J-35A manufacturing hangars at Shenyang Aircraft Company Limited, part of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).
Meanwhile, the Chinese military media center released footage showing multiple unpainted stealth jets under construction. Consequently, the display highlighted advanced design, production scale, and technological sophistication.
Sun Cong, chief designer of the J-35 and academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, explained three core technologies behind the aircraft. In addition, he emphasized that the J-35, China’s first independently developed carrier-based stealth fighter, recently completed maiden training for electromagnetic catapult-assisted takeoff and landing on the aircraft carrier Fujian.
Furthermore, Sun highlighted the stealth features of China stealth fighters, which reduce visibility to adversaries. Additionally, their highly integrated and compact structure enables advanced informatization capabilities. The J-35 also supports dual-mode takeoff, allowing both catapult and ski-jump launches.
The footage also showcased the J-35A, a land-based variant of China stealth fighters. Specifically, it integrates aerodynamic and stealth design with a conventional single-seat, twin-engine layout, blended wing-body, and double-swept vertical stabilizers. Moreover, the all-moving horizontal stabilizers enhance maneuverability.
China designed these stealth fighters primarily for air superiority missions, while secondary duties include surface strikes. They engage enemy aircraft, intercept hostile bombers, cruise missiles, and air defense systems. Consequently, experts note that China stealth fighters significantly strengthen counter-stealth and aerial combat capabilities.
The unveiling also highlights broader developments in China’s defense aviation sector, focusing on independent design, carrier-based operations, and domestic production. Analysts further state that the J-35 and J-35A programs demonstrate China’s growing technical expertise and industrial scale in modern fighter aircraft development.
In addition, the public reveal signals transparency and readiness to project military capability. Moving forward, China stealth fighters will play central roles in carrier air wings and domestic air defense, thereby reinforcing strategic deterrence.
Ultimately, China’s stealth jets underscore the nation’s dedication to modernizing air power and advancing aerospace technology. As production continues, these aircraft are likely to shape regional defense dynamics and global military aviation trends.
