China’s fighter jets have advanced significantly, with over 1,207 now deployed by Asia’s largest economy. However, Chinese military equipment has often faced criticism, with many claiming that their fighter jets lag behind the United States in terms of technology. Chinese jets are said to have less sophisticated weapons, slower speeds, and shorter operational ranges. But is this really the case? Let’s take a closer look at China’s key fighter jets to find out.
One of China’s most advanced jets is the Chengdu J-10 Vigorous Dragon, a multirole fighter introduced in 2007, though reports of its development date back to 1994. This jet reaches speeds of 2,327 kilometers per hour and has a service ceiling of 18,000 meters. With a range of 1,850 kilometers and a combat radius of 550 kilometers, the J-10 combines agility, speed, and advanced avionics, placing it in the 4.5-generation fighter category—between fourth and fifth-generation jets.
Even more advanced than the J-10 is the Chengdu J-20, or “Black Eagle,” China’s fifth-generation stealth fighter. First flown in 2011, the J-20 is designed for high-altitude, supersonic missions, reaching speeds of 2,100 kilometers per hour with an operational range of 3,400 kilometers. The J-20’s stealth technology and powerful capabilities allow it to perform a variety of missions, including ground attacks in hostile environments, putting it on par with elite fighters like the U.S. F-22 Raptor and Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57.
China is also developing the AVIC J-35, seen as a response to the American F-35. Although details remain scarce, the J-35 is designed to operate from China’s upcoming nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the Type-003. It features two WS-13 engines that allow it to reach Mach 1.8 at high altitudes. The J-35 has an operational range of 1,200 kilometers, extendable to 1,900 kilometers with refueling. It can carry a variety of weapons in its internal bay, making it a formidable future addition to China’s military.
In addition to these cutting-edge jets, China’s air force includes other versatile aircraft like the Hongdu JL-10/L-15, a modern jet trainer and light attack aircraft. With a top speed of 1,715 kilometers per hour and a range of 3,100 kilometers, it serves as a flexible platform for both training and combat missions. Another notable jet is the Shenyang J-11, a licensed version of the Russian Sukhoi Su-27SK. First developed in the 1990s, the J-11 has undergone significant upgrades to become a key part of China’s air force, capable of reaching Mach 2.35 with a range of 3,530 kilometers.
So, how strong are China’s fighter jets? Today, they can rival Western technology, as seen with the upcoming J-35, which shares many similarities with the American F-35. China is also working on sixth-generation fighters, which are expected to enter service by 2035. While the U.S. aims to deploy its next-generation fighters earlier, China’s ability to quickly produce large quantities of advanced aircraft could level the playing field in the future.