10 Years, Trillions Spent: Xi Jinping’s Military Makeover Reshapes Global Power Balance

China’s Cutting-Edge Weapons Systems: A Strategic Overview

China’s rapidly advancing weapons systems ranging from stealth jets and nuclear submarines to hypersonic missiles and aircraft carriers reflect its ambition to become a dominant global military power. These cutting-edge platforms enhance the PLA’s combat readiness, power projection, and deterrence capabilities, reshaping regional security and challenging established military hierarchies. This series offers an in-depth look at China’s most significant weapons systems, examining their capabilities, strategic roles, and the broader geopolitical ramifications of a rising military superpower with global ambitions.

J-35 Gyrfalcon – China’s Naval Stealth Fighter

The J-35, a stealth fighter designed for aircraft carriers, symbolizes China's expanding naval aviation capabilities. Debuting at the Zhuhai air show, it's intended as China’s counterpart to the US F-35, strengthening its ability to project air power across the seas.

J-20 Mighty Dragon – The Vanguard of Air Superiority

The Chengdu J-20 is China’s first fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, representing a leap in air dominance and radar-evading technology. Since its induction in 2017, it has become a symbol of China’s modernization drive, paralleling the US F-22 Raptor.

DF-41 ICBM – The Nuclear Deterrent Game-Changer

The DF-41 is a solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads. Its recent launch beyond Chinese airspace showcases China’s growing strategic reach and aims to reinforce its nuclear deterrence posture.

Fujian Aircraft Carrier – The Flagship of Power Projection

The Fujian, China’s third aircraft carrier, features advanced electromagnetic catapults and increased displacement. As a domestically designed vessel, it marks a milestone in China’s quest for a true blue-water navy, enabling power projection far from its shores.

Type 094 Submarine – Undersea Nuclear Threat

The Jin-class Type 094 is China’s strategic nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine. Although it enhances China’s second-strike capability, concerns about its noise levels raise questions about its stealth and survivability in contested waters.

Type 055 Destroyer – Multi-Role Maritime Dominance

With eight already in service, the Type 055 guided-missile destroyer is central to China’s naval modernization. Larger and more heavily armed than many peers, it plays a critical role in fleet air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface combat.

HQ-19 Missile System – The Hypersonic Shield

Designed to counter ballistic and hypersonic missile threats, the HQ-19 is a high-altitude interceptor that rivals the US THAAD system. Its development indicates China's focus on enhancing its layered missile defense architecture.

PL-15 Missile – Beyond Visual Range Lethality

The PL-15 is an advanced air-to-air missile with a range exceeding 200 km. Used by Pakistan in the Kashmir conflict, it has demonstrated operational capability and underscores China’s role as a key defense exporter and regional influencer.