China’s new J-35 stealth fighter has taken another step into the spotlight, and this time the buzz is not just about its carrier trials. Reports from state-linked outlets are now claiming the jet boasts a radar cross section no larger than a human palm, a detail that, if true, would place it in the same league as the most advanced stealth fighters in the world. The J-35 has already begun carrier-based testing aboard the Liaoning, but it’s the stealth factor that has analysts paying attention.
A radar cross section that small would make the J-35 far harder to detect on enemy systems, allowing it to slip into contested airspace with relative ease. For comparison, the U.S. F-35 is often described as having the radar signature of a small bird. If China’s palm-sized claim holds, it suggests the J-35 could operate with similar or even greater stealth advantages.
The jet itself has been in development for several years, with prototypes first seen in 2020. It is designed for both the People’s Liberation Army Navy and Air Force, with features like folding wings and catapult compatibility making it suitable for modern carriers. Beyond its stealth shaping, it is expected to carry advanced missiles such as the PL-15 and could be powered by engines like the WS-19, which would extend range and thrust. Its estimated combat radius sits above 1,200 kilometers, making it a potential game-changer for regional power projection.
Skeptics caution that China’s defense industry often releases bold claims without offering much verification. Independent confirmation of the radar cross section has not been provided, and much of the jet’s internal technology remains under wraps. Even so, the symbolism of announcing such a figure cannot be ignored. It sends a message that China wants the J-35 to be seen as a peer to Western stealth aircraft rather than just another step forward.
With the aircraft already conducting takeoffs and landings from carriers, the combination of stealth and operational readiness could accelerate China’s efforts to close the gap with U.S. and allied naval aviation. Whether or not the palm-sized radar signature proves accurate, the J-35’s progress makes one thing clear: stealthy jets are now a core part of China’s military playbook.