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China has introduced the Shenyang J-35A, significantly developing the Chinese military’s fifth-generation aircraft program. The fighter jet was formally revealed ahead of its debut at the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China) at Zhuhai Airport in Guangdong province, opening on November 12.

The high-quality images show a front three-quarter view of the J-35A, revealing critical design details and allowing comparisons with previous models and rival fifth-generation jets. This first official release of a high-quality image of the J-35A provides a much clearer look at its design, with elements that have been heavily discussed in defense circles.

The aircraft exhibits similarities to the U.S.-made F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, especially in aspects of its design, including its DSI (diverterless supersonic inlet) inlets, canopy, and general configuration.

The J-35A also features an electro-optical targeting system (EOTS), resembling the EOTS found on the F-35, mounted below the nose, and a wide-angle head-up display in the cockpit. Additional elements such as a radar-reflective Luneburg lens, designed to increase the jet’s radar visibility when required, have also been noted, indicating a range of sophisticated design aspects.

The unveiling of the J-35A jet is the latest insight into the evolution of a design that has undergone numerous iterations and transformations. Originally, this aircraft was intended primarily for export, before evolving into a carrier-capable model, the J-35, for the PLA Navy’s growing aircraft carrier fleet. However, the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has shown renewed interest in adopting a land-based version of the jet.

Resemblance with F-35

Despite the obvious resemblance, experts are cautious in labeling the J-35A as a “copy” of the F-35. The complexity of a fifth-generation fighter like the F-35 means it is impossible to fully replicate without direct access to highly specialized technology, even if classified data were acquired.

A key distinction between the two jets is the twin-engine design of the J-35A, as opposed to the F-35’s single-engine setup. The J-35A’s dual engines could theoretically provide greater redundancy and durability, especially in long-range operations, but it may also affect its stealth and efficiency.

The F-35 was designed to support short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL), a capability absent from the J-35A, allowing the latter to achieve a sleeker, more slender build. This design choice raises questions about the J-35A’s internal fuel capacity, operational range, and storage capacity for internal weaponry.

Notably, the J-35A features a single nose wheel instead of the twin wheels typically seen on carrier-based jets, and it lacks a catapult launch bar, making it unfit for carrier deployment.

The J-35A also bears distinct PLAAF insignia and is painted in a gray camouflage scheme, with tailfin markings commemorating the PLAAF’s 75th anniversary. The aircraft is speculated to have been in development for years, with unofficial images of what seemed to be a J-35A prototype surfacing last year, followed by another sighting in late September 2023.

Export plans for J-35A

The development of a land-based J-35A highlights China’s ambitions in both domestic and international defense markets. The J-35A could serve as an attractive export option for nations unable to acquire Western fifth-generation fighters due to political constraints or export restrictions.

Pakistan has already expressed interest in a land-based variant, and a confirmed PLAAF order would likely help bring down production costs. The unveiling at Airshow China is anticipated to increase interest from other nations as well.

With export-oriented fifth-generation fighter programs emerging worldwide, such as South Korea’s KF-21 Boramae and Turkey’s TF Kaan, the J-35A could position China as a competitive player.

Unlike South Korean and Turkish designs that incorporate U.S.-licensed engines, the Chinese fighter is free from American export restrictions, potentially allowing China to sell the J-35A to a broader range of countries, including those unable to buy Western equipment.