In the 21st century, the battlefield is not just on land—it’s above us. Air superiority has become a key pillar of modern warfare, and the race to develop cutting-edge stealth fighter jets is heating up. While the United States continues to dominate the skies, China has rapidly emerged as its primary challenger.
Post-USSR: The Global Power Balance Shifts
The collapse of the Soviet Union reshaped the global power structure. Russia, once a superpower, has seen its global influence decline, especially when it comes to challenging the United States across all military domains. In contrast, China has risen swiftly, asserting itself not just economically but militarily as well. Today, it’s America and China head-to-head in nearly every strategic sphere.
The Fifth Generation Fighter Jet Face-Off
Both the U.S. and China now possess fifth-generation stealth fighter jets. The U.S. Air Force boasts the highly advanced F-22 Raptor, while China’s Chengdu J-20, also known as the “Mighty Dragon”, symbolizes its growing technological muscle. Designed for air superiority and long-range strike missions, the J-20 plays a key role in contested regions like the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.
J-20: A Deep Dive Into China’s Stealth Jet
- Stealth Design: Engineered to evade radar and infrared detection.
- Powerful Engines: Equipped with twin Shenyang WS-10C turbofan engines, allowing speeds up to Mach 2 and a range of approximately 5,500 km.
- High-Tech Avionics: Features include a digital glass cockpit, multi-spectral sensors, helmet-mounted displays, and an electro-optical targeting system providing 360° situational awareness.
- Weapons Systems: Capable of launching PL-10, PL-15, PL-21 air-to-air missiles, laser-guided bombs, and anti-radiation missiles.
- AESA Radar: Advanced radar system similar to the one used in France’s Rafale fighter jets.
Recent reports suggest China may already be testing a tailless stealth jet flying alongside the J-20S, hinting at early work on a sixth-generation aircraft—though official confirmation is still pending.
America’s Accusation: J-20 Is a Copy of the F-22
The U.S. has strongly criticized the J-20 program, accusing China of stealing American defense technology. According to American defense sources, the J-20 is heavily inspired by or possibly a reverse-engineered version of the F-22 Raptor. This allegation has intensified tensions between the two nations, especially after China showcased the J-20 at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow.
Read More: AMCA Is Coming: China and Pakistan Should Be Very, Very Worried
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