Beijing: China has rapidly deployed fifth-generation advanced fighter aircraft. This is likely to revolutionize its air power against potential adversaries like the US and India. A recent report said that China’s new stealth fighter aircraft J-31B is expected to be deployed on its third aircraft carrier Fujian. The J-31B is built by the Chinese Shenyang Aircraft Industry Group. It was presented to the world in late June. The J-31B is specially designed for aircraft carrier use. In such a situation, after deployment on Fujian, this fighter aircraft will greatly increase the air and sea power of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
J-31B China’s stealth fighter aircraft
The report said that the J-31B is a stealth fighter aircraft, which is more challenging to detect through radar. This fighter is capable of integrating drones with itself. It is a significant upgrade from the current fourth-generation Shenyang J-15. It said that China’s largest aircraft carrier, Fujian, is equipped with an electro magnetic catapult, allowing the jets to carry more fuel and weapons. This expands their operational area and combat capabilities. J-31B is a rival of the US F-35
The J-31B is considered a competitor to the US F-35 Lightning II and is part of China’s ongoing efforts to increase the deployment of fifth-generation fighters, including the Chengdu J-20, Nikkei reported. Jane’s reported last month that the PLA Air Force has significantly strengthened its fleet with advanced Chengdu J-20 “Mighty Dragon” fifth-generation stealth fighters. Jane’s says that in the 11 months leading up to July 2023, the PLA-AF inducted more than 70 J-20s, bringing the total number of aircraft to about 195. Potential for a massive boost to Chinese air power
This expansion has enabled older fourth-generation fighters such as the Shenyang J-11 and Sukhoi Su-27SK/UKB to be replaced in several air brigades, it reported. The report also said that by May 2024, the PLA-AF operated 12 air brigades equipped with the J-20, three of which were fully equipped with the stealth fighter. According to the Jane’s report, the J-20’s enhanced capabilities, such as airborne early warning and control (AEW&C), underscore its growing importance within the PLA-AF.
