Chinese aircraft carrier to be equipped with J-15, J-35: designer

Chinese aircraft carriers will be equipped with both the next-gen J-15 and J-35 fighter jets, a senior designer said Tuesday at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, or Zhuhai Airshow.

Speaking at a press conference hosted by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), Sun Cong, chief designer of the J-15 fighter jets, highlighted the complementary roles of the two aircraft in a carrier's mission system.

Sun stressed its long development journey dating back to 2004, as part of the air force's move towards "information-centric" warfare.

"When it comes to the development of 'one platform, multiple variants', it's a matter of design philosophy. From the perspective of fighter jets, we've evolved from earlier generations that prioritized altitude and speed to third-generation fighters focused on energy maneuverability. Now, we've entered an era centered on information integration. In other words, a fighter is no longer merely a weapons platform; it's a critical information node. With the nation investing heavily in these projects, we've naturally adapted the design for multi-service use, adopting a systematic, series-based approach. The J-35's development, which started as far back as 2004, is a testament to this long-term effort, and unveiled to the public now," he said.

Furthermore, Sun told the media that non-stealth aircraft like the J-15 are suitable for missions after securing air superiority, while stealth fighters such as the J-35 are pivotal in achieving air dominance.

"The purpose of showcasing these aircraft is to highlight their coordinated roles on carriers. The J-15 and J-35 are designed to complement each other's capabilities. Typically, once air superiority is achieved, non-stealth aircraft can be widely deployed. However, during the initial phase of securing air superiority, high-performance stealth jets such as the J-35 are essential. This reflects a systematic approach to the development of carrier-based aviation," Sun said.

This year's event is running from Tuesday to Sunday.

Chinese aircraft carrier to be equipped with J-15, J-35: designer

Chinese aircraft carrier to be equipped with J-15, J-35: designer

Protesters filled Mexico City's Paseo de la Reforma on Saturday, rallying in solidarity with Venezuela and denouncing U.S. influence in Latin America.

The United States launched a large-scale military operation against Venezuela in the early hours of Jan 3, taking by force Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

Holding numerous flags and banners while chanting slogans intermittently, a huge crowd of protesters criticized U.S. military actions against Venezuela and the unlawful control over President Maduro and his spouse, calling for respect for national sovereignty and regional peace.

"We oppose the U.S. intervention and hegemony towards the countries in Latin America. The United States has flagrantly trampled on international law, bombed Caracas and kidnapped the Maduro couple. The U.S. interventionism has become extremely blatant. We must firmly oppose and be highly vigilant, because this is not only related to a certain country, but also to all countries," said a protester.

"We demand that the United States stop interfering in Venezuela's internal affairs. The country must immediately cease its exploitation and plundering of the countries in Latin America," said another protester.

Protest erupts in Mexico City over US military operation in Venezuela