FC-31 J-31 Gyrfalcon
The FC-31 J-31 Gyrfalcon is a fifth-generation stealth multirole fighter developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation in China. First unveiled in 2012, the FC-31 is designed for export markets and is intended to compete with other fifth-generation fighters like the F-35. With its stealthy design, advanced avionics, and multirole capabilities, the FC-31 aims to provide a cost-effective solution for nations seeking modern air combat capabilities.
Fact Sheet
| Role | Stealth multirole fighter |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Shenyang Aircraft Corporation |
| First Flight | 2012 |
| Service Entry | TBD |
| Crew | 1 |
Specifications
| Length | 16.9 m (55.4 ft) |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 11.5 m (37.7 ft) |
| Height | 4.8 m (15.7 ft) |
| Empty Weight | 17,500 kg (38,580 lb) |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 28,000 kg (61,730 lb) |
| Powerplant | 2 × WS-19 turbofans (planned) |
| Thrust | ~25,000 lbf (110 kN) per engine |
| Max Speed | Mach 1.8 (2,205 km/h; 1,370 mph) |
| Service Ceiling | 20,000 m (65,600 ft) |
| Range | 1,200 mi (1,930 km) combat radius |
| Rate of Climb | ~50,000 ft/min (254 m/s) |
Avionics & Armament
| Main Radar | Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar |
|---|---|
| Avionics | Advanced avionics suite, electronic warfare systems |
| Armament | Internal bays for: – 4 air-to-air missiles (PL-10, PL-15) – Precision-guided bombs External hardpoints for: – Additional missiles, bombs, or fuel tanks |
Notable Features
- Stealth design for reduced radar cross-section.
- Multirole capability for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
- Export-oriented to compete with other fifth-generation fighters.
- Advanced avionics for enhanced situational awareness.
- Potential for naval carrier-based operations in the future.
In the fascinating world of fifth-generation fighter jets, China has not one, but two contenders making waves. While the large and imposing J-20 Mighty Dragon is often seen as China’s answer to the F-22 Raptor, the smaller, more versatile FC-31 Gyrfalcon (also known as the J-31 or, in its naval variant, J-35) is quickly emerging as a significant player, both for China’s own military and for potential export customers.
Often drawing comparisons to the American F-35 Lightning II due to its size and potential roles, the FC-31 represents China’s push to offer a modern, stealthy, and adaptable fighter jet for the global market and its burgeoning naval aviation needs.
From Private Venture to National Asset: The FC-31’s Journey
Unlike the J-20, which was a top-priority state-funded program from the outset, the FC-31 began as a private venture by the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC). This ambitious project aimed to develop a medium-sized stealth fighter that could be offered for export, particularly to countries unable or unwilling to acquire the F-35.
The first prototype, designated “31001” (FC-31 V1), made its maiden flight on October 31, 2012. Over the years, SAC continued to refine the design, leading to an improved second prototype (“31003” / FC-31 V2) in 2016. These early versions were primarily technology demonstrators.
However, the program gained significant momentum when the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) reportedly expressed interest in a carrier-based version. This led to the development of dedicated naval and land-based variants, now often referred to as J-35 (for the carrier version) and J-35A (for a land-based version), indicating a formal adoption or strong interest by the Chinese military. The navalized J-35 conducted its maiden flight on October 29, 2021.
The Hallmarks of a “Fifth-Generation” Fighter
The FC-31/J-35 incorporates key features that classify it as a fifth-generation fighter:
- Stealth (Low Observability): A core design principle, the FC-31 features a sleek, angular airframe with carefully shaped surfaces to deflect radar waves. It also uses radar-absorbent materials (RAM) on its skin and internal weapons bays to carry missiles and bombs, avoiding the radar reflections caused by external stores. This makes it difficult for enemy radar to detect, allowing it to penetrate contested airspace.
- Advanced Avionics and Sensor Fusion: Like other modern stealth fighters, the FC-31 is expected to have sophisticated avionics systems. This includes an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar for long-range detection and tracking, an Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) for precise targeting, and an Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system for passive detection of heat signatures. Crucially, it’s designed to integrate data from all these sensors into a comprehensive picture for the pilot – a process known as sensor fusion, greatly enhancing situational awareness.
- Networking Capabilities: The FC-31 is expected to be a highly networked aircraft, capable of sharing its sensor data with other friendly aircraft, ships, and ground units in real-time. This ability to operate as part of a larger, interconnected force is a hallmark of modern air warfare.
- Twin-Engine Power: The FC-31 is a twinjet design, initially powered by Russian RD-93 turbofan engines. However, China is actively developing its indigenous WS-19 engines to power production variants, aiming for greater thrust and self-sufficiency. Twin engines provide redundancy and generally allow for higher thrust and potentially better high-altitude performance.
- Internal Weapons Bays: For maintaining its stealth profile, the FC-31 has two internal weapons bays in its fuselage, each capable of carrying at least two air-to-air missiles (like the PL-15 for long-range engagements). It can also carry precision-guided bombs. For missions where stealth is less critical, it can utilize external hardpoints under its wings, though this would increase its radar signature.
Variants and Roles: Tailored for Tomorrow’s Battles
The evolution of the FC-31 into seemingly distinct variants highlights its adaptable nature:
- FC-31 (Export / Land-Based Prototype): The initial focus for international customers. It’s envisioned as a more affordable alternative to the F-35, offering fifth-generation capabilities to nations that might not have access to Western aircraft. Potential buyers, such as Pakistan, have publicly stated their intent to acquire the FC-31, which could boost its prominence on the global market.
- J-35 (Naval Carrier-Based Variant): This is arguably the most significant development for China’s own military. With its twin-wheel nose landing gear (equipped with a catapult launch bar), folding wings, and a recovery tailhook, the J-35 is designed to operate from the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) growing fleet of aircraft carriers, particularly the new Type 003 Fujian which features advanced electromagnetic catapults (EMALS). It’s expected to complement or eventually replace the J-15 “Flying Shark” as the PLAN’s primary carrier-borne fighter.
- J-35A/J-31B (Land-Based PLAAF Variant): Recent reports and promotional videos suggest the development of a dedicated land-based version for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). This variant, potentially larger and more optimized for land-based operations with a single-wheel nose landing gear and different vertical stabilizers, could serve as a complement to the heavier J-20, filling a “medium fighter” role in the PLAAF’s fifth-generation fleet.
Status and Outlook: A Future Force
As of mid-2025, the FC-31/J-35 is still in various stages of development and testing. While the naval J-35 variant has been flying for several years, its official entry into full operational service with the PLAN is likely still some time away. Similarly, the land-based J-35A/J-31B is being refined.
The FC-31/J-35 is poised to become a significant presence in the skies, particularly for China and its allies. Its continuous development underscores China’s commitment to advancing its own military aviation capabilities and expanding its influence in the global defense market. This “Gyrfalcon” is rapidly evolving from a privately funded project into a crucial component of China’s future air and naval power.
