China’s PLAAF presented its J-20 stealth fighter in a static display for the first time at the 2025 Changchun Air Show, signaling greater transparency and confidence in its most advanced combat aircraft. The showcase coincided with confirmation of the 300th J-20 entering service, reflecting the scale of China’s production efforts and its implications for the regional balance of power.
On September 9, 2025, the PLA Military Updates account on X shared older images of a J-20 configured in “beast mode.” In this setup, the aircraft carried twelve PL-15 long-range and two PL-10 short-range missiles—eight PL-15s externally and the remainder internally. While this configuration reduces stealth, the fighter could act as a standoff missile carrier if paired with a KJ-500 early warning aircraft, employing the “A guide, B shoot” tactic to rely on external sensors for targeting.
The PL-15 missile, developed by the China Airborne Missile Academy, is an active radar-guided weapon capable of beyond-visual-range engagements. Entering service in the mid-2010s, it uses a dual-pulse rocket motor for high speed, reportedly exceeding Mach 5, and has an estimated range of 200–300 km. The PL-15E export version, limited to 145 km, was supplied to Pakistan and saw its first combat use in May 2025 during the India–Pakistan conflict. Pakistani J-10C aircraft launched PL-15 and PL-15E missiles against Indian Air Force targets, downing at least one Rafale. Debris recovered in India provided direct evidence of the missile’s operational debut and offered insights into its performance.
