China’s multi-role, stealth-capable J-35 fighter jet gets official name ‘Blue Shark’

China has officially nicknamed its Shenyang J-35 the “Blue Shark,” which, experts note, likely signals it is close to operational status. Roughly equivalent to the US’ F-35C “Lightning,” the J-35 is stealth-capable and designed for carrier launch. If true, then this officially gives China a second near- or fully-operational stealth fighter alongside the Chengdu J-20. That would make it the only country, alongside the United States, with this capability. The J-35 is a single-seater, multi-role aircraft, meaning it can carry out air combat and strike missions when required. In essence, the aircraft gives the Chinese navy the capability to fight through defending space from a carrier. Apart from the “branding” aspect of the new name, this move likely signals that the J-35 is now transitioning from its prototype phase to real deployment with the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). Its name also fits the existing conventions for the PLAN, all of which are shark-based. For reference, the Shenyang J-15 is called the “Flying Shark,” with the J-15D the “Electric Shark.” “Blue Shark” rises Officially revealed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation on Thursday (April 23), this now confirms rumors from the Zhuhai Airshow in November 2024 of the name. It also confirms reports of the nickname that have circulated since at least 2022. The aircraft itself has come a long way since its first official test flight back in October of 2012. Redesigns, better engines, and improved stealth and aerodynamics culminated in its first catapult launch test in 2021. Primarily designed for use with the PLA, variants also exist for land-based use called the J-35A. The carrier variant incorporates many features necessary for the role, including foldable wings and heavily reinforced landing gear. It also comes with an arrestor hook and catapult launch bar for use with China’s most modern carriers, like the Fujian . Of greater import for China is the J-35’s alleged stealth capability; however, It featur…