Q&A · 30:18-30:59

Could China's J-35 operate from an LHD?

The J-35's carrier takeoff requirements make an LHD a different proposition from a ship operating F-35Bs.

Question

Will China operate J-35 fighters from its LHDs in the way some navies operate F-35Bs?

Short answer

Probably not: the J-35 lacks the short-takeoff-and-vertical-landing capability needed for the proposed use, and drones are suggested instead.

Notes

The J-35's expected operation here is catapult launch, with ski-jump operation also considered possible. Neither arrangement gives it the short takeoff and vertical landing capability of the F-35B. The length of an LHD's flight deck is therefore the obstacle to the proposed comparison. Drones are the alternative aircraft explicitly suggested for these ships.