J-35A fighter (PLAAF) + FC-31 thread
- Thread starter ACuriousPLAFan
- Start date
Slim Lim!
I don't see an EODAS window on the front between the canopy and the radome like the J-20. Curious.Full-resolution (5246 x 2951). Pardon the image size, but it's worth it this one time. Note the retractable Luneburg lens.
Are we sure it's a prototype? Simultaneously to the reveal, the PLAAF claimed that the type has entered service.
There's no obvious side nose EO-PDS window either (possibly one which exists but is grey). Also the chin EO-IRST system looks like it is a mockup (possibly has a cover on, but size wise it looks like it doesn't have a cover).
I wouldn't be surprised if it is a prototype that doesn't have subsystems.
Which lines up with what I've heard, that this is just one of the earlier prototypes.
I'm pretty sure J35A and J20 would be the 5th gen version of J10 and J11. From what can be collected from the big shrimps words so far, it should be cheaper, easier to produce (as shown by the articles on 3D printing parts and etc) and easier to maintain (not really a surprise as the program was designed to have a carrier version to begin with). I'm just kind of curious what kind of speed they'll be pumping these out, given they are already producing the "heavy weight" J20 at such a high pace.
Tho I've being hating on the name since the rumors came out several years ago (what kind of troll would choose this name), I gotta say this is my favorite 5th gen aesthetically so far.
Where did the PLAAF state it „entered“ service? I think you are reading a bit too much into some social media posts
But then the question is: how many are already out there?
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(This is purely a design comparison due to these jets sharing a number of similarities and design choices, pay no mind to their actual specs which'd make them totally incomparable)
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Addendum - I believe this may have been a mistake on my part (particularly, the very 2nd post of this thread):
The actual, more accurate information that we should get out of this PLAAF post on Weibo are that:
1. The existence of J-35A is confirmed, and
2. The J-35A definitely will enter service with the PLAAF (apart from the J-35(B?) for the PLAN).
Regarding the question of "Whether the J-35A has actually entered service with the PLAAF or not?", I don't think we have a definite answer for that at the moment.
Although, rumors from the grapewine suggest that the J-35A will enter service one year after its carrier-based sibling.
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