China officially started mass production of its J‑35 stealth fighter jet after CCTV aired footage from the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation on July 8, 2025. The video showed several J‑35s in advanced assembly. This confirms that China now produces the jet at scale.
Built for Carriers and Multiple Roles
Footage from the factory revealed J‑35 jets with green primer, which is common for early production units. At least five or six jets carried codes like “040070,” placing them in the fourth production batch. Visible arrestor hooks show that these aircraft will serve on China’s new Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier.
Features and Performance
The J‑35A stands out with its twin engines, internal weapons bays, and radar-absorbing material. Its trapezoidal wings and composite build help reduce radar detection. Each fighter has an estimated takeoff weight between 25 and 28 tons. Early models run on WS‑13E or WS‑21 engines. Future versions will likely upgrade to WS‑19 engines, which promise stronger thrust and might allow for supercruise.
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Goals and Export Plans
China wants to match Western forces by running two stealth fighter projects at once. Along with the J‑20, the J‑35 gives China the second-largest stealth fleet after the United States. As more J‑35 jets roll out, their cost per unit will drop. This could attract countries barred from buying U.S. F‑35s. Reports suggest Pakistan might receive 30 to 40 J‑35As as early as August 2025, though officials have not confirmed this.
