In a significant escalation, China's military has been conducting rehearsals for assaults on U.S. stealth fighter bases using its advanced J-20 and J-35 stealth fighters. These exercises are a clear signal of Beijing's intent to deter American intervention in the Taiwan Strait.
Satellite images and intelligence reports reveal that China's People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has deployed J-20 fighter jets to strategically significant locations, including Shigatse in Tibet, less than 150 kilometers from the Indian border. This deployment places the J-20s within striking distance of key Indian military bases, raising regional tensions significantly.
China’s new “Submarine Sky Eye” technology could potentially render the entire US submarine fleet obsolete by making their stealth capabilities ineffective.https://t.co/JgvmYVvXv8
— William Huo (@wmhuo168) July 2, 2024
The Chengdu J-20, known as the "Mighty Dragon," is China’s premier stealth fighter, equipped with advanced sensors and air-to-air missiles capable of targeting adversaries up to 300 kilometers away. This aircraft, introduced in 2017, symbolizes China's growing aerial prowess and its ambition to rival U.S. air dominance.
Moreover, the PLA is not only relying on the J-20. The Shenyang J-35, another stealth fighter variant, is also being integrated into China's military strategy. The J-35, initially developed for naval operations, is now seeing potential deployment in land-based roles. This variant could be exported to allied nations like Pakistan, thereby amplifying China's influence and strategic depth in the region.
–#IndianNavy’s indigenous stealth frigate INS Shivalik at Pearl Harbour, Hawaii to participate in world’s largest military exercise #RIMPAC24
-40 Warships
-3 Subs
-150 Aircraft
-14 nation’s land forces with 25K personnel-World is getting ready for #China, is your country ready? pic.twitter.com/xsYaZP9OIl
— Insightful Geopolitics (@InsightGL) July 1, 2024
These maneuvers come amid heightened tensions over Taiwan. The PLA's exercises simulate attacks on U.S. bases that house F-35 and F-22 fighters, showcasing China's intent to neutralize U.S. air superiority quickly in the event of a conflict. The exercises are part of a broader strategy to intimidate Taiwan and deter U.S. support for the island nation.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has responded to these developments by upgrading its own capabilities. India has deployed French-built Rafale fighters and is enhancing its air defense systems, including the Russian-made S-400 missile system, which can track and potentially neutralize stealth fighters like the J-20. However, India's efforts to develop its own indigenous stealth fighter, the AMCA, face significant challenges, potentially leaving it vulnerable in the face of increasing Chinese and Pakistani aerial capabilities.
China’s aggressive posture is not confined to the Indian border. The PLA has also been fortifying its positions across the South China Sea and near Taiwan, conducting large-scale naval and aerial drills. These exercises involve a mix of aircraft, warships, and ground assets, all aimed at encircling Taiwan and demonstrating the PLA’s ability to conduct multi-domain operations.
In response, the United States and its allies have been increasing their military presence in the region. Joint exercises with Japan, Australia, and South Korea are becoming more frequent, emphasizing interoperability and collective defense against potential Chinese aggression.The strategic implications of China's military advancements are profound. By rapidly expanding its stealth fighter capabilities and integrating these assets into various theaters of operation, Beijing is not only preparing for potential conflicts but also signaling its readiness to challenge U.S. influence in the Asia-Pacific region. The PLA's advancements underscore the urgent need for the U.S. and its allies to bolster their own military capabilities and maintain a robust presence in this increasingly volatile area.
