: It began as the FC-31 "Gyrfalcon" , an industry-led project by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation that first flew in 2012.
: In late 2025, public footage confirmed the carrier variant's successful launch and recovery using electromagnetic catapults on the carrier Fujian . Technical Analysis and Capabilities jkof35.m4v
: The carrier-based version is a "leap ahead" for China's naval aviation, providing a stealthy strike capability in open oceans. : It began as the FC-31 "Gyrfalcon" ,
Analysts often compare the J-35 to its American counterpart, the F-35 Lightning II , though there are distinct design differences. Analysts often compare the J-35 to its American
The J-35 positions China as the only country besides the United States to simultaneously operate two distinct types of fifth-generation stealth fighters.
: Unlike the single-engine F-35, the J-35 uses a twin-engine configuration, which may offer better supersonic acceleration but potentially carries less internal fuel.
: It is built for both air superiority and precision strike missions against ground and maritime targets.