What is the story about?
What's Happening?
China has released footage of its newest stealth fighter jets, the J-35 and J-35A, as part of its efforts to challenge U.S. airpower. The J-35 is designed for aircraft carrier operations, while the J-35A is a land-based variant. The footage shows these jets under construction at the Shenyang Aircraft Company's hangars. The J-35 features a dual-mode takeoff system, allowing it to launch from aircraft carriers using either catapults or a ski-jump flight deck. The Chinese navy operates three aircraft carriers, with CNS Fujian featuring electromagnetic catapults capable of launching heavier aircraft.
Why It's Important?
China's development of stealth fighter jets is significant as it positions the country as a major military power in the Indo-Pacific region, rivaling the United States. The J-35 and J-35A jets are capable of evading radar detection, similar to the American F-22 and F-35 jets. This development highlights the ongoing military competition between the U.S. and China, with both countries racing to field more advanced next-generation fighter aircraft to maintain air superiority. The U.S. has deployed its F-35 jets in Japan to deter Chinese aggression, emphasizing the strategic importance of these developments.
What's Next?
It remains uncertain whether China will continue developing new variants of the J-20 and J-35 families of stealth fighter jets or focus on next-generation aircraft. The ongoing military advancements by China could lead to increased tensions with the U.S. and its allies, impacting regional security and military strategies. The Pentagon's report on Chinese military power highlights the size and capabilities of China's aviation forces, which are the largest in the Indo-Pacific region and the third largest in the world.
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