The J-16 | Is it the best Flanker?

Video Description

Is the J-16 the Ultimate Flanker? | China’s Advanced Multirole Fighter The Shenyang J-16 has emerged as one of China’s most sophisticated fighter aircraft, often touted as the “ultimate Flanker.” But how accurate is that claim? This episode takes a deep dive into the development, capabilities, and strategic role of the J-16 and its electronic warfare variant, the J-16D. Derived from the Su-27/30 Flanker lineage and domestically produced by China’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the J-16 represents a significant leap in indigenous Chinese military aviation. We explore how it evolved from the J-11 and J-15, integrating composite materials, advanced electronic warfare systems, and cutting-edge networking capabilities. With its dual WS-10B engines, multirole payload flexibility, and unique missile loadouts—including the PL-10 and PL-15—the J-16 has positioned itself as a serious regional threat, particularly in contested airspace over the seas. The video also discusses: • How China reverse-engineered Flanker designs and pushed past Russian IP disputes • The role of AI co-pilots and digital weapons systems • Comparisons to Western platforms like the F-15E, Super Hornet, and EA-18G Growler • Emerging evidence of Chinese advancements in electronic warfare and sensor fusion • Speculative capabilities including radar burn-through against US Growlers and links with AWACS systems like the KJ-500 • The J-16’s role in China’s broader military strategy, particularly over naval theatres As China narrows the technological gap with the West, the J-16 serves as a lens into the PLAAF’s ambitions and evolving doctrine. It may not surpass all Western fighters in raw performance, but as a multirole, networked combat aircraft, the J-16 deserves close attention. CONTENT 00:00 Introduction 00:53 Disclaimer 01:30 Chinese Flanker derivatives 05:01 J-16 Development 07:08 J-16 Capabilities 07:55 A J-16 vs EA-18G 10:02 J-16 electronic warfare speculations 12:08 Chinese Strategies 14:04 Specs 18:29 Sensors 22:51 Wrap Up Support this channel by joining our Members & Merch shop at https://peacemaker.fashion for ad-free early access, exclusive military fashion discounts, and more perks. Transcripts and discussion can be found at our Substack https://militaryaviationvideos.substack.com/ _____________ Disclaimer _____________ Original footage and recreated scenes (using DCS, War Thunder, etc) may not be 100% accurate to the event being described but has been used for dramatic effect. This is because there may not have been original footage of a particular event available, or copyright prevents us from showing it. Our aim is to be as historically true as we can be given the materials available. Copyright disclaimer under fair dealing sections ss 40/103C, ss 41/103A,ss 42/103B of the Copyright Act which includes research, study, criticism, review, and reporting of news. Copyright remains with the respective owners. These videos are made for educational purposes only. The Australian Military Aviation History Association is a not-for-profit association with the intent of recording, preserving and promoting Australian military aviation history.