China's People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has officially inducted the J-35A, a fifth-generation stealth multirole fighter, into service with its 1st Air Brigade, joining the existing J-20 stealth fighters. Recent observations show formations including the J-16D electronic warfare aircraft leading J-20 and J-35A fighters, highlighting the integration of electronic warfare capabilities with stealth fighters in modern air combat. The J-20S, a twin-seat 5.5-generation stealth fighter variant equipped with a dedicated weapons systems officer for controlling unmanned drone wingmen, is also nearing operational service. Additionally, China has reportedly begun mass production of the J-35A, positioning it as an affordable alternative to the American F-35. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has deployed its JF-17C Block III multirole fighters and C-130H transport aircraft to the United Kingdom to participate in the 2025 Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT). The PAF showcased long-range air-to-air refueling capabilities for the JF-17s, which traveled approximately 6,000 kilometers to attend the event.
PAF to showcase JF-17 Thunder, C-130 Hercules at RIAT 2025 #ARYNews https://t.co/z0ciA0p6lR
Another J-15T's construction number spotted: This time number 97 H1104197 is cn. 020022. (Image via @鼎盛大彪 from Weibo) https://t.co/A5QuoK7O1E
An incredible photo captured by @VIPER4PAF shows a Pakistan Air Force (PAF) JF-17C Thunder Block III multirole fighter from No. 08 Squadron 'Haiders' taking off en route to the 2025 Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT). https://t.co/TL6nK3se9X