RuAviation

At the XV Airshow China 2024, which will be held in Zhuhai from November 12 to 17, several novelties of the Chinese aviation industry will be presented, one of which is a promising deck fighter of the fifth generation J-35A.

The appearance of the first photos of the J-35A is generating increased interest in specialized TG channels and aviation circles. Analyzing the aerodynamic design of the nose part of its fuselage, similarity to the American F-35 fighter is noted. This solution in terms of aerodynamics, as well as the presence of a vortex-forming edge of air intakes makes the design of the J-35A very recognizable.

Despite the external similarities with the F-35, the Chinese fighter has significant differences – it is a powerplant of two turbojet twin-circuit engines with WS-21 afterburners and divorced nacelles. The total thrust of the SU is 19500 kgf. At the same time, the Chinese engine products do not have a controlled thrust vector, which limits the maneuverability of the fighter.

The J-35A wing has a trapezoidal shape, reminiscent of the Su-57 wing, but with a simpler mechanization system. Special attention is paid to onboard equipment: it is assumed that the fighter will be equipped with a KLJ-7A jamming AFAR radar with the ability to detect targets with an effective reflective surface of 1 square meter at a range of up to 130 km, as well as high-tech defense systems and detection of attack missiles.

The fighter’s range without suspended fuel tanks is estimated in the range of 1100-1300 km, with suspended fuel tanks – up to 1900-2100. Practical ceiling is 16700-17300 meters. Non-adjustable air intakes will limit the speed limit at 1750-1900 km/h.

The J-35A fighter is a development of the FC-31 prototype, the PRC military envisions the J-35A as the main deck aircraft of the new Chinese aircraft carrier, equipped with advanced electromagnetic catapults. More details about this fighter jet may emerge after the official presentation, which is expected to take place at the air show.

In addition to the J-35A, Chinese HQ-19 anti-aircraft missile systems and advanced drones are to be demonstrated. The Chinese Air Force also plans to show J-20 and J-16 aircraft in demonstration flights, as well as the new YY-20A refueling aircraft. The Y-20’s cargo bay demonstration and the opening of the J-20 fighter’s weapons compartments in flight are expected to be particularly interesting.

This year’s Airshow takes on special significance as it is organized to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the PLA Air Force, celebrated on November 11. The combination of the anniversary and military aviation novelties, including the Russian Su-57, enhances interest in the event and draws the attention of international and local spectators to the rapidly developing potential of China’s aviation industry.