Recently, the in-depth analysis by CCTV and other media on the "beast mode" of the J-35 fighter has attracted widespread attention. This domestically produced stealth carrier-based aircraft showcases a striking strike capability with its 12 hardpoints and 8-ton external load configuration, which is even more powerful than expected. Why is the J-35 willing to give up its renowned stealth performance for specific missions? This is the perfect combination of a series of technological breakthroughs and tactical innovations.

The electromagnetic catapult on Fujian Ship can release the full payload potential of carrier-based aircraft

The design of the J-35 fully considers the assistance of the electromagnetic catapult. Compared to traditional ski-jump takeoff, the electromagnetic catapult provides a more uniform and controllable acceleration process, allowing the J-35 to take off with full fuel and weapons, thus completely unleashing its 8-ton external load potential. This is the fundamental guarantee for its adoption of the "beast mode."

The J-35 is a professional carrier-based aircraft, with the advantage of being a later-developed model leading to multiple hardpoint design

As a later-developed aircraft, the J-35 has drawn lessons from the experiences of global stealth fighters in its structural design. It has 12 hardpoints, which are even comparable to the J-15T in terms of the number of heavy hardpoints. This design enables it to carry more and larger weapons when needed, forming the structural basis for achieving the "6+6" mounting mode.

The J-35's formation division of labor achieves tactical optimization

In the future, carrier-based aircraft formations will inevitably move towards specialized division of labor. Some J-35s can maintain their stealth state to perform front-line reconnaissance and assault missions, while the J-35s in "beast mode" serve as "arsenal planes," providing intensive fire support from the rear. This mixed formation of stealth and non-stealth aircraft ensures penetration capabilities and greatly enhances sustained strike firepower.

Dual mission drivers for weapon configurations, especially air defense missions concerning the reunification of the nation

The J-35 not only needs to perform anti-sea strike missions, but also, in high-intensity confrontation environments, it must carry many air-to-air missiles to ensure air superiority, which is particularly critical. The "beast mode" allows the aircraft to carry a large number of long-range and medium-range air-to-air missiles at once, building a very reliable "air defense network" for the fleet. The greatest threat from U.S. strategic bombers to China is the cruise missiles they launch. At this time, the J-35 needs to carry 12 or even more air-to-air missiles to carry out air defense missions, thereby significantly increasing the strategic defensive range of the Chinese military.

Stealth carrier-based aircraft carrying hypersonic weapons changes the game rules

The most notable is that the J-35 may carry hypersonic anti-ship missiles. This combination will revolutionize traditional naval warfare - stealth fighters are responsible for penetration, and hypersonic missiles are responsible for "breaking through," launching a fatal strike outside the enemy's defense circle, posing an unprecedented threat to large aircraft carrier groups.

While the U.S. F-35C carrier-based aircraft still faces challenges in electromagnetic catapult takeoff and landing, the J-35's "beast mode" capability has significant meaning. This demonstrates that China has become very mature in carrier-based aircraft design and electromagnetic catapult technology, and it also means that the future of naval warfare will undergo significant changes.

Now, the twin-seat version of the J-35S is under development, with the ability to cooperate with "loyal wingman" drones. This aircraft, with its "medium-sized body but heavy combat power," is redefining the operational concepts of carrier aviation. In the future, whether to choose stealth performance or powerful firepower will no longer be a difficult choice between two options, but rather a flexible tactical adjustment based on different mission requirements.

This flexibility is the greatest operational advantage of fifth-generation carrier-based aircraft. Given that the U.S. F-35C has very weak weapon mounting capabilities, China's stealth carrier-based aircraft have once again taken a clear lead in multi-mission capabilities. This is not just boasting, but a fact that cannot be denied.

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7560677966590591528/

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