China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is rapidly advancing its air capabilities with a new generation of stealthy, long-range aircraft and sophisticated drones. This build-up is significantly altering the balance of air power in Asia, raising concerns among global defense analysts. Leading this transformation are aircraft like the J-35 and its naval variant, the J-35A, representing China’s foray into advanced fifth-generation multirole fighters. These jets are designed to operate as integrated sensors within a larger network, capable of internal weapons carriage to maintain their stealth profile. The J-35A, specifically adapted for carrier operations with reinforced structures, underscores China’s growing maritime ambitions and its expanding aircraft carrier fleet. Supporting these advanced fighters is the KJ-3000 airborne early warning and control platform, a crucial asset for theater-level command. Its long-range radar and advanced datalinks enable real-time coordination of fighter assets and missile defenses, acting as a significant force multiplier for both offensive and defensive operations. Further pushing the boundaries of aerial technology, China is developing experimental aircraft such as the J-50 stealth fighter. Its design, featuring internal weapon bays and advanced aerodynamics, suggests a focus on penetrating heavily defended airspace, potentially for bomber escort or long-range interception missions. The J-36 Chengdu adds another layer to China’s air force, envisioned as a heavy, multi-mission platform optimized for long-range strike and command-and-control functions. Its unique three-engine configuration and tandem cockpit point to a design prioritizing extended range, substantial payload, and operational flexibility, including seamless integration with unmanned systems. The WJ-700 HALE drone enhances China’s unmanned capabilities, offering persistent surveillance and strike power. Comparable to US drones like the Reaper, it can carry air-to-surface munitions and operate for extended durations, providing vital intelligence and strike options in contested environments. This comprehensive suite of new aircraft demonstrates a modern, layered approach to air warfare. Advanced AEW&C platforms, long-endurance drones, and stealth fighters are being networked to gather intelligence, achieve air dominance, and execute precise strikes. The potential integration of ‘loyal wingman’ unmanned aircraft further amplifies these capabilities, creating a networked battlefield that challenges conventional Western military strategies. The PLAAF’s emerging ‘ghost fleet’ signifies not just an expansion of China’s air power but a fundamental shift in the dynamics of potential air conflicts across the Asian theater.
