On the occasion of the J-20’s 15th anniversary, Beijing is showcasing its stealth capabilities while production of the J-35A accelerates and the study of Western tactics intensifies.
Summary
On January 11, China released previously unseen footage of the maiden flight of the J-20, symbolizing a fighter aircraft that entered the stealth era fifteen years ago. This historical reminder is not insignificant. It accompanies a phase of industrial acceleration around the J-35A, the new fifth-generation fighter jet intended to complement and then expand China’s air force, including from a naval perspective. At the same time, there are reports of air combat simulations pitting Chinese J-16s against French Rafales, a sign of sustained interest in analyzing Western doctrines and tactics. Taken together, this paints a coherent strategy: consolidate a mature program, industrialize a more flexible successor, and fuel training with credible operational references. Behind the communication lies a structured rise in power of the PLAAF, both industrial, doctrinal, and strategic.
The celebration of the J-20 as a strategic message
The release of previously unseen images of the first flight of the J-20, which took place on January 11, 2011, was a calculated choice. By recalling this seminal date, Beijing is emphasizing the industrial continuity of a program that has long been underestimated in the West. Fifteen years later, the J-20 is no longer a controversial prototype but an aircraft integrated into operational units, produced at a steady pace and regularly modernized.
The staging of this anniversary serves several purposes. First, it affirms the technological maturity of the program. The J-20 has gradually evolved, with the integration of more powerful engines, improved sensors, and the adaptation of its configuration for a variety of missions. It also serves as a reminder that China is now capable of conducting a long-term stealth program without any major industrial disruptions. Finally, it paves the way for the next generation, placing the J-35A on a logical trajectory rather than as an isolated leap forward.
The current place of the J-20 in the Chinese air force
The J-20 is now the core of the PLAAF‘s stealth segment. Open estimates suggest that more than 200 aircraft have already been produced, with an annual production rate exceeding several dozen units. Without confirming official figures, China is suggesting that the J-20 is now a relatively mass-produced tool, rather than a marginal capability.
Operationally, the aircraft is presented as a long-range air superiority fighter, optimized for interception and information dominance. Its role is not limited to close combat. It is part of a system of systems, combining sensors, data links, and support platforms. This approach explains why Beijing is placing less emphasis on direct comparisons and more on overall integration.
The communication surrounding the anniversary is therefore intended to remind us that the J-20 is not set in stone. It is a foundation, destined to coexist with other more specialized stealth platforms.
Industrial acceleration of the J-35A
In parallel with this anniversary, production of the J-35A is undergoing a visible acceleration phase. Designed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the J-35A is distinguished by a more compact architecture and increased versatility. Unlike the J-20, which was designed primarily for air superiority, the J-35A is presented as a multi-role stealth fighter, capable of operating from land bases and, eventually, from aircraft carriers.
The images and information released in recent months suggest gradual industrialization, with several airframes observed simultaneously. This ramp-up reflects a clear desire to have a second stealth aircraft that is more adaptable and potentially more exportable. Although no official announcement has been made regarding exports, the J-35A’s format is more suited to the needs of partners with more limited resources than those required for the J-20.
In budgetary terms, this acceleration reflects a conscious decision. Beijing is investing in production lines capable of high-volume output, accepting high initial costs in order to secure economies of scale in the long term.
A logic of complementarity between the J-20 and J-35A
The coexistence of the J-20 and J-35A is not a matter of redundancy but of a segmentation strategy. The former retains its role as a heavy fighter with a long range and strong command capabilities. The latter is designed for more varied missions, with easier integration into naval or expeditionary environments.
This approach is reminiscent of that seen in the United States with the F-22 and F-35 combination, although the balance is different. For China, the challenge is to cover a broad operational spectrum while avoiding excessive dependence on a single model. The J-35A also helps to absorb some of the industrial load, relieving the J-20 production lines and accelerating the overall growth of the stealth fleet.
J-16 vs. Rafale simulations as a doctrinal tool
Another notable element concerns the air combat simulations reported between Chinese J-16s and French Rafales. These exercises, conducted in virtual or semi-realistic environments, do not signify a direct confrontation. They reflect in-depth doctrinal work.
The J-16, a heavy derivative of the Su-27, represents the non-stealth but heavily modernized backbone of the PLAAF. The Rafale, for its part, embodies a Western approach based on data fusion, versatility, and the coordinated use of sensors and weapons. Studying this type of aircraft allows China to refine its tactics against technologically advanced adversaries that are different from American platforms.
These simulations serve several purposes. They feed into pilot training. They test tactical hypotheses, particularly in terms of detection, electronic warfare, and multi-aircraft coordination. Finally, they inform future development by identifying the strengths and limitations of Western architectures.
Chinese interest in Western tactics
The interest in aircraft such as the Rafale is not based on technical fascination, but on operational pragmatism. China knows that its future engagements, whether real or deterrent, will pit it against forces using a variety of doctrines. Understanding these rationales allows it to adapt training, rules of engagement, and command architectures.
This approach is part of a tradition of in-depth analysis. Beijing observes, simulates, and integrates. The use of J-16s in these exercises also highlights a reality: modernized non-stealth aircraft remain essential, even when facing fifth-generation platforms. The PLAAF is not betting everything on stealth. It is building a balanced fleet.
A consistent rise in power for the PLAAF
Taken together, the anniversary of the J-20, the acceleration of the J-35A, and the doctrinal simulations paint a clear picture. The PLAAF is no longer content to catch up. It is structuring a combat aviation force designed to last, with volume, doctrine, and a solid industrial base.
The investments made reflect a strategic priority. China is devoting increasing resources to its air force every year, not only to produce aircraft, but also to train crews, modernize infrastructure, and develop advanced simulation tools. This comprehensive approach explains the apparent consistency between communication, production, and training.
Controlled, outward-looking communication
Finally, communication about the J-20 and J-35A is clearly aimed at an external audience. It sends a message to regional neighbors, potential partners, and strategic competitors. Beijing is showing that it now masters the entire cycle: design, industrialization, modernization, and doctrine.
This message is neither triumphalist nor discreet. It is calibrated. It serves as a reminder that China has permanently joined the exclusive club of powers capable of mass-producing stealth fighter jets, and that it intends to remain there.
The evolution of the J-35A will be closely scrutinized. Its ability to maintain a high production rate, to incorporate rapid improvements and, eventually, to open up to export will say a lot about the next phase of Chinese combat aviation. In this landscape, the J-20 is no longer just a symbol of the past. It has become the benchmark from which Beijing is building the future.
Sources
Official communications and Chinese state media on the J-20 anniversary, January.
Open analyses on the production and industrialization of the J-35A by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation.
Specialized reports and analyses on the PLAAF and the evolution of its fighter fleets.
Information from Asian and Western media on J-16 and Rafale combat simulations.
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