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This past September, China’s newly developed J-35 stealth fighter achieved a significant milestone by successfully launching from the Fujian aircraft carrier. This debut not only highlights a leap forward for China’s naval aviation capabilities but also signals Beijing’s intention to rival the dominance of F-35s and America’s presence at sea.
Having commanded an operational squadron of F-35s, I bring firsthand experience of what it takes to transition a fifth-generation fighter jet from concept to reality. Throughout my career flying F-18s off carriers and attending TOPGUN, I learned that the journey to operational readiness is often more complex than it appears in planning documents. What this aircraft is capable of is impressive, but understanding the dedication required to make it truly effective is even more critical.
The Unveiling of the J-35 and Its Implications
The J-35 represents a considerable advancement for China’s aerial arsenal. This fifth-generation stealth fighter is engineered to withstand the demanding nature of carrier operations, including catapult launches, arrested landings, and constant exposure to harsh maritime conditions. The demands of naval aviation require a specialized airframe tailored to endure corrosion, salt spray, and environmental stressors.
On the surface, the J-35’s achievements appear commendable. However, my experiences have shown that what looks good on paper often diverges from reality. While successfully accomplishing initial launch and recovery tests is a notable feat, it only marks the beginning of extensive operational challenges. Years of testing, unforeseen setbacks, and necessary refinements lie ahead on the path to operational competency.
The Reality of Carrier Operations
Even though the J-35 can take off from a carrier, thriving in such a demanding environment is another matter entirely. Sustained operations at sea stretch both machines and personnel to their limits. China faces several hurdles, including engine reliability, stealth performance, and parts availability—each of these complications becomes even more magnified in a maritime setting.
The daily rhythm of life aboard an aircraft carrier incorporates relentless salt, extreme heat, unsteady motion, and unpredictable weather—all of which create work challenges for the crew. Anyone familiar with the flight deck understands the unforgiving nature of this environment, where precision and resilience are not just desired but required.
Lessons from the F-35 Experience
When I first piloted the F-35, it became clear that this cutting-edge jet would revolutionize our approach to warfare. Leading the first group of F-35 pilots revealed an essential truth: it is not just sophisticated technology that influences the outcome of missions; rather, it is the commitment and skill of the American servicemen and women who operate, maintain, and support these machines. Advanced technology enhances our capabilities, yet it holds little value without the right leadership.
The true strength of the U.S. military lies not solely in its aircraft or the technology at its disposal. Our advantage is rooted in our leadership—thousands of dedicated servicemembers aboard naval vessels work diligently to maintain advanced equipment and collaborate effectively to ensure operational readiness in any environment. Their relentless training, discipline, and teamwork serve as a force multiplier, forming a uniquely American edge that transcends what one can quantify on paper.
China’s Technological Imitation vs. American Leadership
China can replicate aircraft features and construct ships that resemble ours, but they cannot emulate the leadership ethos that characterizes American military aviation. The initiative, adaptability, and sense of ownership exhibited by those who operate these systems define our effectiveness in combat.
As we anticipate further advancements from adversaries, including improvements to the J-35’s stealth and operational capabilities, we must recognize the pivotal factor in warfare—the people controlling the aircraft and the team supporting them. This crucial element of human connection and skill will always outweigh specifications on a tech sheet.
Investing in People: The Key to Success in War
Maintaining and enhancing our advantages is vital, and we must prioritize investing in the skills and capabilities of our servicemembers. Maverick articulated this well in Top Gun, stating, “It’s not the plane; it’s the pilot.” This sentiment resonates deeply today. Advanced stealth fighters do not win wars; rather, it is the people who operate them—leading themselves, their teams, and their machinery in the world’s most challenging environments—who ultimately ensure victory.
As we look ahead, the ongoing evolution of military technology must always be accompanied by a focus on the human spirit and leadership dynamics that drive effective operations. Acknowledging the necessity of strength in character complemented by cutting-edge tools will undoubtedly fortify our readiness to face future challenges on the battlefield.
