Fifth-gen fighters make cameo appearance as China unveils production facilities

For the first time, China has unveiled the production facilities of its fifth-generation fighters, hinting at the aircrafts’ readiness for carrier-based catapult launchers.

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At least two J-35 fighter jets were spotted in a hangar of its developer, Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, during an interview with Chinese state broadcaster CCTV on Tuesday.

The stealth aircraft – covered in green paint – were in the background as the TV anchor introduced the J-15T, a 4.5-generation multirole fighter that can be launched by a catapult.

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China’s biggest air show in Zhuhai features new fighter jets and helicopters

China’s biggest air show in Zhuhai features new fighter jets and helicopters

Li Guoen, a test pilot for J-15 fighters of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), said the J-15T had been upgraded from the J-15, with thicker struts, a catapult tow bar and dual-wheel landing gear.

The efficiency of energy absorption of the front landing gear remained a major technical challenge, he said in the interview.

“You can see that the landing gear is very thick … we hope to make this structure slimmer and lighter in the future as that would give the aircraft better control.”

During a CCTV report on Tuesday, at least two J-35 fighter jets were spotted in a hangar of its developer, Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. The stealth aircraft, painted green, can be seen in the background. Photo: CCTV
During a CCTV report on Tuesday, at least two J-35 fighter jets were spotted in a hangar of its developer, Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. The stealth aircraft, painted green, can be seen in the background. Photo: CCTV

The report did not mention the J-35, but its shipborne version, as well as the naval fighter J-15T, are expected to be deployed on China’s third aircraft carrier.

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