Chinese J-35 “invisible” as F-35? Beijing announces a breakthrough in stealth technology

Chinese state media have announced crucial advancement in stealth technology, claiming that the latest onboard V generation fighter, J-35, has an effective radar cross section (RCS) smaller than a human hand. This information, revealed by the state tv CCTV, suggests that the Chinese fighter has reached a level of “invisibility” for radars comparable to its American counterpart, F-35.

What is an effective radar cross section (RCS)?

In simplification, RCS is simply a measurement of how “visible” is an object for radar. The lower the RCS value, the harder it is to detect, track and attack the aircraft. For comparison:

• Older 4th generation fighters, like the F-16, have an RCS of 5 square meters.
• American F-35 has an RCS of about 15 cm2.
• Considered the most “invisible” aircraft in the world, F-22 Raptor, has an RCS of about 1 cm2.

The claim that the RCS of Chinese J-35 is “less than a human hand” (10,100 cm2) puts it in the same elite league as the F-35, which represents a immense technological leap for the Chinese defence industry. According to CCTV, the advanced properties of the stealth J-35 consequence from the unique form of its hull and the copyright application metamaterialswhich absorb the radar waves.

J-35 – claws of a fresh Chinese aircraft carrier

J-35 is not only a demonstration of technology, but a key component of China's military power at sea. It is the world's second (after the American F-35) stealth fighter designed to operate with aircraft carriers.

Recent material published by Chinese media confirms that J-35 successfully passed key tests on board the state-of-the-art Chinese carrier, “Fujian”.

• Start from electromagnetic catapult: J-35 successfully launched from the fresh advanced electromagnetic catapult (EMALS), a technology only the United States had so far. This gives the chance to launch heavier aircraft with more fuel and weapons.
• Landing with braking ropes: The fighter has besides successfully passed landing tests on a short belt aircraft carrier.

These successful attempts, which besides active another key machines, specified as the KJ-600 early informing aircraft, mean that the carrier “Fujian” is getting closer to achieving full combat readiness. Its entry into service, with J-35 fighters on board, will importantly alter the strategy of forces in the Indo-Pacific waters, giving China the ability to task forces only the U.S. Navy had so far.

Source:

• South China Morning Post: “China’s J-35 fighter jet ‘stealthier than US F-35’’;
• CCTV (China Central Television);
• Global Times;
• The War region / The Drive;

Leszek B. Glass

Email: [email protected]

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