The Zhuhai Airshow, held from November 12 to 17, is showcasing the latest developments in China’s aerospace industry. During recent days, the new carrier-based J-15T fighter jet and the J-15D electronic warfare aircraft, which will equip China’s aircraft carriers, were officially unveiled, alongside the new J-35A stealth fighter of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). Adding to these unveilings, the official presentation of the twin-seat variant of the fifth-generation Chengdu J-20 fighter took place in a static display.
Officially named the Chengdu J-20S by AVIC, this is a two-seat version of the fifth-generation J-20 fighter currently in service with the PLAAF. Its development and presentation during the Zhuhai Airshow make it the world’s first twin-seat stealth fighter. As observed, the current U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, as well as Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57 (for which UAC has sent two aircraft for display in China), do not have this type of version.
While twin-seat models have traditionally been used primarily for pilot training, they have also been employed in advanced roles such as electronic warfare, enemy air defense suppression, and, looking to the future, operating under the Loyal Wingman concept with an entirely new generation of unmanned combat aircraft. According to promotional videos presented by AVIC, this would be the case for the new J-20S, leveraging the extensive development of these platforms taking place in China, with examples including UCAVs like the FH-97A and CH-7.
Chinese military experts, through state-affiliated media, have highlighted the introduction of this new version of the J-20, emphasizing its potential uses, which could range from controlling other platforms to electronic warfare missions, enemy air defense suppression, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance tasks in the Theater of Operations.
At present, many of the J-20S’s final characteristics and capabilities have not been revealed. However, it is speculated that the aircraft is in the development and testing phase, with limited records of these test flights, indicating the secrecy surrounding the project since rumors of its existence first surfaced.
For the static display at the AVIC stand, the J-20S is showcased with a life-size model alongside the new J-35A stealth fighter, which has also been officially presented with a program prototype and live aerial displays. They are accompanied by part of the armament array they will carry, including short-range PL-10E (export version) and long-range PL-15E air-to-air missiles.
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