China Prepares for Potential Attacks on U.S. Stealth Fighter Bases: Demonstrating Strength

In a significant move, China’s military is rehearsing assaults on U.S. stealth fighter bases using its advanced J-20 and J-35 stealth fighters. These drills are a clear demonstration of Beijing’s determination to deter American involvement in the Taiwan Strait.

Satellite images and intelligence reports indicate that China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has stationed J-20 fighter jets at strategically important locations like Shigatse in Tibet, less than 150 kilometers from the Indian border. This deployment puts the J-20s within striking range of key Indian military facilities, significantly heightening regional tensions.

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 top stealth fighter, outfitted with advanced sensors and air-to-air missiles capable of targeting enemies up to 300 kilometers away. Introduced in 2017, this aircraft symbolizes China’s expanding aerial capabilities and its ambition to challenge U.S. air supremacy​.

Additionally, the PLA is not solely relying on the J-20. The Shenyang J-35, another stealth fighter variant, is also being incorporated into China’s military strategy. Originally designed for naval operations, the J-35 is now being considered for land-based roles. This model could potentially be exported to allied nations like Pakistan, bolstering 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 actions are happening amidst escalating tensions over Taiwan. The PLA’s exercises simulate attacks on U.S. bases hosting F-35 and F-22 fighters, displaying China’s intent to swiftly neutralize American air superiority in the event of a conflict. This is part of a broader strategy to intimidate Taiwan and discourage U.S. support for the island​.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is responding to these developments by enhancing its own capabilities. India has deployed French-made Rafale fighters and is fortifying its air defense systems, including the Russian-built S-400 missile system, which has the potential to detect and counter stealth fighters like the J-20. However, India’s efforts to develop its own indigenous stealth fighter, the AMCA, are facing significant hurdles, potentially leaving it exposed to increasing aerial capabilities from China and Pakistan.

China’s assertive stance extends beyond the Indian border. The PLA is bolstering its positions in the South China Sea and near Taiwan, conducting extensive naval and aerial exercises. These drills involve a mix of aircraft, warships, and ground forces, with the aim of encircling Taiwan and showcasing the PLA’s ability to carry out multi-domain operations​​.

In response, the United States and its allies are ramping up their military presence in the region. Collaborative exercises with Japan, Australia, and South Korea are becoming more frequent, highlighting the importance of cooperation and joint defense against potential Chinese aggression. The strategic consequences of China’s military advancements are significant. By rapidly enhancing its stealth fighter capabilities and deploying them in 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 progress underscores the critical need for the U.S. and its allies to strengthen their military capacities and maintain a robust presence in this increasingly volatile area.