China's J-35 Naval Stealth Fighter Receives 'Blue Shark' Nickname Ahead of Deployment
The J-35, China's naval stealth fighter, has been officially named 'Blue Shark' as it prepares for mass deployment. This designation reflects a tradition within the PLA Naval Aviation naming conventions and marks a significant step in the fighter's operational integration.
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The Chinese Navy's J-35 stealth fighter has been officially nicknamed 'Blue Shark' as confirmed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation on April 23, 2026. The J-35 prototype first flew on October 29, 2021, and features naval-specific modifications such as a catapult launch bar, folding wings, and reinforced landing gear.
By mid-2025, multiple airframes were noted in production, indicating a transition to early operational status. The J-35A variant, first flown on September 26, 2023, was publicly displayed in November 2024.
Naming conventions align with other carrier aircraft, enhancing fleet identity. The J-35's internal configuration allows for various weaponry, including air-to-air and precision-guided munitions, supporting its role in extended-range combat. The absence of tactical numbering suggests it is not yet assigned to operational squadrons, posing a potential risk for integration timelines.
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