Beijing has established a four-platform combat structure that links the stealth J-20 and newly introduced J-35A with the multirole J-16 and J-10C. Under this network-centric warfare doctrine, the stealth aircraft utilize low observability and advanced sensors to direct operations and pass targeting data across shared links. Meanwhile, conventional platforms deliver significant firepower, exemplified by the J-16 carrying two short-range PL-10 missiles and eight beyond-visual-range PL-15 missiles with an estimated 200-kilometer range. Looking ahead, China is also developing next-generation J-36 and J-50 concepts featuring artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, and unmanned combat drones.
Key points
Chinese aerial doctrine combines low-observable stealth aircraft acting as advanced senso…: Chinese aerial doctrine combines low-observable stealth aircraft acting as advanced sensor nodes with heavily armed multirole fighters delivering long-range missile strikes.
The military's updated frontline lineup depends heavily on real-time data links and share…: The military's updated frontline lineup depends heavily on real-time data links and shared situational awareness to conduct coordinated network-centric combat.
Beijing is expanding its current fifth-generation capabilities while pursuing sixth-gener…: Beijing is expanding its current fifth-generation capabilities while pursuing sixth-generation programs incorporating artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, and unmanned drones to rival American air dominance initiatives.
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China has expanded its frontline fighter aircraft concept from the traditional 'three swordsmen' to a new 'four swordsmen' formation, adding its J-35A stealth fighter to a lineup that includes the J-20, J-16 and J-10C. The development marks another step in the modernisation of the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF).
The J-35A made its public debut at the Zhuhai Airshow on November 12, 2024. With its induction, China has become the second country after the US to develop and operate two fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft. The US currently operates the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II. The J-35A, a medium-sized stealth fighter, has also drawn comparisons with the American F-35 because of its broadly similar design.
According to a report by The Eurasian Times, Chinese military commentators and state broadcaster CCTV have increasingly presented the four aircraft as an integrated combat formation rather than separate platforms. The shift comes as China continues to expand its military aviation capabilities and prepares for the next generation of aerial warfare.
What each fighter brings
For years, the J-20 heavy stealth fighter, J-16 multirole…
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