Chinese SAC - FC-31/J-35 5th Gen Stealth Aircraft

[Michael]

Rumor has it that China's new STOVL fighter jet has a configuration similar to the F-35B. Unlike the F-35B, it's also said to feature folding wings and larger wingspan.

Currently, we have no concrete information about the J-35B.

But, there is some interesting information for our amusement.

1. The J-35A (equipped with the WS-19 engine) is the official service variant of the PLAAF.
2. The J-35 currently in service (using the WS-21 engine) naval version is still a transitional variant rather than an official variant.

Based on the previous development progress of the WS-19 engine naval version, the second half of this year should be the time when it may make its maiden flight.

Therefore, if there is indeed news about the J-35B code, it is highly likely to be the code for the official naval variant of the J-35 (using the WS-19 engine).

By the way, about 1-2 years ago, I consulted some professionals, and the response I received was:
AVIC and AECC do indeed have specialized teams dedicated to STOVL research. Due to the high level of confidentiality, other teams are unaware of their actual progress.
However, a crucial piece of information is that the research funding for these STOVL development teams is significantly lower than that for other project teams. Therefore, I speculate that STOVL projects have a lower priority. It's unlikely we'll see tangible results in the short term.

 

[mdmm55]

Currently, we have no concrete information about the J-35B.

But, there is some interesting information for our amusement.

1. The J-35A (equipped with the WS-19 engine) is the official service variant of the PLAAF.
2. The J-35 currently in service (using the WS-21 engine) naval version is still a transitional variant rather than an official variant.

Based on the previous development progress of the WS-19 engine naval version, the second half of this year should be the time when it may make its maiden flight.

Therefore, if there is indeed news about the J-35B code, it is highly likely to be the code for the official naval variant of the J-35 (using the WS-19 engine).

By the way, about 1-2 years ago, I consulted some professionals, and the response I received was:
AVIC and AECC do indeed have specialized teams dedicated to STOVL research. Due to the high level of confidentiality, other teams are unaware of their actual progress.
However, a crucial piece of information is that the research funding for these STOVL development teams is significantly lower than that for other project teams. Therefore, I speculate that STOVL projects have a lower priority. It's unlikely we'll see tangible results in the short term.

Hopefully Pakistan will get these jet fighters very soon.
China and Pakistan have never disclosed defence news about jet fighters untill Pakistan receive it.