SOURCE: AFI
In recent years, two Chinese fighter aircraft have drawn significant attention in military aviation circles: the fifth-generation J-20 Mighty Dragon, comparable to the F-35, F-22, and Su-57, and the J-16, a multi-role fighter designed to rival Western aircraft like the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and Russia’s advanced Su-35. Among these, the J-16 is increasingly regarded as the “ultimate Flanker.” But is it truly deserving of this reputation?
The J-16 is one of five Flanker derivatives produced domestically by China’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. Its lineage traces back to the Russian Su-27 family, beginning with the J-11, China’s first Flanker variant produced under a license agreement in the late 1990s. Over the years, China transitioned from assembling Russian kits to designing indigenous upgrades, eventually developing the J-11B, a multi-role fighter that marked a departure from Russian reliance.
The J-16, introduced in the 2010s, is a twin-seat, multi-role platform envisioned to outperform both the J-11 in air-to-air combat and the J-15 in strike and electronic warfare roles. It is equipped with advanced avionics, digital networking systems, and, in the case of the J-16D variant, cutting-edge electronic warfare capabilities.
The J-16 boasts active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, advanced sensors, and avionics developed domestically. These enable the aircraft to undertake a wide range of missions, from precision strikes to electronic warfare and maritime surveillance.
Designed as a “do-everything” fighter, the J-16 aligns with the operational philosophy behind platforms like the F-15E Strike Eagle or the Su-30SM. It can conduct air superiority missions, long-range interdiction, and close air support.
The J-16D, an electronic warfare variant, is outfitted with wingtip-mounted jamming pods and other specialized equipment. It is believed to serve a role similar to the EA-18G Growler, supporting suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) and enabling network-centric warfare capabilities.
Chinese researchers claim that recent advancements in artificial intelligence allow the J-16 to network with other assets, such as the KJ-500 AWACS, ground-based radars, and naval vessels. During a December 2023 incident in the South China Sea, Chinese forces reportedly demonstrated the ability to “burn through” electronic jamming from U.S. EA-18G Growlers, suggesting progress in integrating AI-driven data fusion and electronic warfare countermeasures.
China’s Flanker derivatives, including the J-16, have often been criticized for intellectual property (IP) infringements. Russian officials have accused China of violating agreements by reverse-engineering the Su-27 and Su-33. Despite these disputes, China’s advancements in the J-16 underscore its growing aerospace capabilities, particularly in avionics and engine technology.
As of 2024, over 350 J-16 aircraft are believed to be operational, with production continuing at a steady rate. The platform is deployed across the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and Navy (PLAN), demonstrating versatility in both air-to-air and air-to-ground roles.