On February 10, China presented an J-20 model to the Iranian general, which sparked a knowing laugh at the scene!

That day, during a closed-door meeting in Tehran, the Chinese military attache personally handed a delicate model of the J-20 stealth fighter to the commander of the Iranian Air Force. Video footage showed that the scene was immediately filled with enthusiastic applause, and the Iranian Air Force commander also displayed a "knowing smile."

At the same time, the U.S. Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group was approaching sensitive Iranian waters for patrols. At this moment, China's decision to present the J-20 model to Iran was clearly not a random act. The J-20 is a fifth-generation stealth fighter independently developed by China, officially introduced into service in 2017, marking China as the second country in the world capable of mass-producing stealth fighters. Although this one is a model, not an actual aircraft, and does not represent a weapons sale, it sends a very clear message: China has the capability to enable Iran to possess air combat capabilities comparable to the F-22A.

For decades, Iran has long been subject to Western arms embargoes and sanctions, with its air force mainly relying on American-made F-14s from the 1970s and a few Russian MiG-29s. Although Iran has made efforts to develop domestic aircraft such as "Kowsar" and "Lightning," its overall air combat capabilities still show a significant gap compared to regional rivals, especially Israel and Saudi Arabia. In the face of the pressure of U.S. air superiority, Iran cannot directly purchase the J-20, but this move by China undoubtedly sends an important signal: I am a partner who can withstand the U.S. military.

If Iran were to equip itself with the J-35A, even without the support of early warning aircraft, it would still be able to pose a threat to U.S. carrier-based aircraft and Israeli fighters. After all, its stealth performance allows the J-35A to appear mysteriously near U.S. aircraft carriers, and even intercept Israeli F-35s.

Original text: toutiao.com/article/1856793572974668/

Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.