In the latest military parade, China’s J-35 stealth carrier-based fighter made a stunning appearance. Even more exciting, officials confirmed for the first time that the J-35 can operate on both the Liaoning and Shandong aircraft carriers. In a CCTV interview, Shenyang Aircraft Corporation engineers revealed that the J-35 is “catapult- and ski-jump capable” , a major breakthrough that will significantly boost China’s carrier strike group capabilities.
A leap into the stealth era
According to official reports, the J-35 is among the world’s most advanced fifth-generation stealth fighters. Its ability to operate in both catapult-assisted and ski-jump launch modes makes it China’s first stealth fighter designed with dual compatibility. This reflects both the powerful performance of its engines and the efforts of Chinese researchers in overcoming long-standing technical challenges.
The induction of the J-35 signals China’s entry into the fifth-generation carrier aviation era. Its sleek design offers superior stealth compared to global peers, while its role in air superiority, strike missions, and maritime attack will greatly enhance naval aviation.
Complemented by the KJ-600 carrier-based AEW&C
Another milestone is the KJ-600 airborne early warning aircraft, which has entered service with at least 11 units already built. While originally associated with the Fujian (CV-18), its relatively light takeoff weight allows it to ski-jump from Liaoning’s forward deck as well.
Dubbed a “flying command post at sea”, the KJ-600 extends the detection range of carrier groups, identifying low-flying sea-skimming threats and providing command guidance for fighters and missiles. This makes the carrier fleet not only harder to attack but also more effective in offensive operations far from home waters.
Transforming China’s carrier groups
With the J-35 stealth fighter and the KJ-600 AEW&C, the Liaoning and Shandong are poised for a dramatic combat capability boost. Together with the heavy J-15T fighters, the combination resembles a sword-and-shield formation:
- J-35 – stealth penetration and precision strikes.
- J-15T – heavy combat operations and sustained firepower.
- KJ-600 – extended early warning, air command, and coordination.
This synergy transforms China’s carriers from near-sea defense tools into true far-sea power projection platforms, paving the way for operations in the Indian Ocean, South Pacific, and even beyond.
