2024-09-22 08:23:48
Beijing: China’s stealth fighter aircraft J-35 has reportedly begun test operations on the aircraft carrier CNS Liaoning. Chinese state media announced the successful landing and takeoff of the J-35 from the aircraft carrier Liaoning on September 18. This is the first time China has publicly reported the J-35 operating from an aircraft carrier. Defence experts have warned that its potential deployment would pose a threat to India’s security.
China got a big success
China Central Television (CCTV) reported on the major tests on the CNS Liaoning. However, the video did not show the J-35 taking off or landing. The carrier variant of the J-35 fighter jet is also known as the FC-31. It reflects China’s effort to move towards advanced fifth-generation aircraft to modernize the navy’s air capabilities.
An aircraft carrier-based version of the J-35 has been discussed for several years. In July 2022, the first photos of the J-35 carrier prototype appeared online. In February 2023, a video was released showing a young Navy pilot preparing to take off in a new carrier-based jet.
Will replace China’s J-15
Experts believe that this stealth fighter will replace the current J-15 which is China’s only operational aircraft carrier-based fighter. It is a heavyweight fighter, which limits its mission capabilities. The J-15 is 22,000 pounds lighter than the J-35. However, it is heavier than US Navy fighter jets.
Danger for India?
As China moves ahead with its next-generation aircraft carrier fighter J-35, concerns are rising in New Delhi’s defence circles. Indian defence expert and former Air Force officer Vijayendra K Thakur calls it a hidden threat to India’s national security. The EurAsian Times quoted Thakur as saying that the launch of the J-35 from Liaoning shows its potential.
He explained that Liaoning does not have a catapult facility. This means that the J-35 or FC-31 will use a ski jump for take off. This is proof that it has a good power to weight ratio. It is similar to the MiG-29K and Rafale-M. If China deploys the fifth generation stealth fighter on the aircraft carrier, it will greatly strengthen its naval air capabilities in the coming years.
Pakistan is also buying FC-31
It is not just China that poses a threat to India with stealth aircraft. Earlier this year, Pakistan Air Force Chief of Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar, announced the purchase of the Chinese fifth-generation FC-31 stealth fighter. While India’s two major rivals are equipping themselves with stealth aircraft, the initiative in India is moving at a sluggish pace. India is in talks with France to buy 26 Rafale Marines (Rafale-M). But the delivery of these jets will take years as the contract between France and India is yet to be finalised.