Maritime Affairs Program (MAP) Handbill Spotlight

Following the introduction of the J-15, China’s first carrier-based fighter, the J-35A, whose most significant feature is its enhanced stealth capabilities, is expected to further strengthen China’s naval power as the PLAN moves quickly to extending its naval reach, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, and equipping its second indigenous Type 003 carrier, the Fujian, and future carriers models with a viable stealth platform for the next generation of combat scenarios.

Publicly available specifications from China’s state media suggest the J-35A features twin engines, low observability, and enhanced operational versatility—capabilities that could make it a formidable competitor in its class.

Recent Events

The J-35A made its first public appearance at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow mid-November 2024. Official Chinese media highlighted the platform as a testament to the country’s growing expertise in stealth technology and its commitment to self-reliance in military innovation. The airshow served as a platform for Beijing to demonstrate its progress in developing a viable carrier-based stealth fighter, particularly as the PLAN ramps up the operational readiness of its aircraft carriers fleets, particularly the Type-003 Fujian, PLAN’s first catapult-equipped carrier.

On December 19, 2024, Pakistan is reported to procure 40 J-35A from its Chinese neighbor. Given the longstanding defense ties between Islamabad and Beijing, a potential deal would mark a significant milestone in China’s arms export ambitions. Over the past decade, Pakistan has already worked closely with China to jointly develop the JF-17 Thunder fighter amid pressing challenges to modernize its air force to cope with regional challenges. The decision to procure the J-35As could provide a much-needed edge in stealth capabilities that takes the Pakistani air capability to a newer level. The procurement, if proceeded, would undoubtedly recalibrate the military balance in the South Asian region, particularly in relation to Pakistan’s rival, India.

Keep In Mind

The introduction of the J-35A carries significant implications for regional security. For the U.S., it underscores the growing challenge of countering China’s expanding naval capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. As a carrier-based stealth fighter, the J-35A enhances China’s ability to project power across regional hotspots, including the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Its deployment alongside advanced carriers could complicate U.S. military planning and further tilt the regional balance of power.

Beyond military applications, the J-35A could also bolster China’s position in the international arms market. Although China trails far behind the United States and a few other western countries in global arms sales, Beijing has steadily increased its exports, targeting markets in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East in recent years. A stealth fighter like the J-35A could appeal to countries seeking advanced technology without the political strings often attached to U.S. defense sales. 

The J-35A’s potential export to countries like Pakistan also raises concerns about its role in reshaping military partnerships. While its technical capabilities are not designed to match the U.S. An F-35 in terms of interoperability and networked warfare, the J-35A could still offer a cost-effective alternative for nations reluctant or unable to procure Western-made platforms. This could allow China to expand its influence in markets traditionally dominated by American and Russian aircraft.

Finally, the J-35A represents a broader trend in stealth fighter development. As more nations, such as Italy, Japan and the UK’s next generation fighter project, South Korea-Indonesia joint KF-X project, and Turkey’s TF-X project, enter the race for low-observability aircraft, the proliferation of this technology could lead to new challenges in arms control and military escalation. For China, the J-35A is both a symbol of progress and a reminder of the strategic complexities that come with advanced military capabilities.