Tech Rivalry Takes Flight: Palmer Luckey, China’s J-35, and the Future of Airpower
A recent exchange at the Singapore Airshow between Palmer Luckey, founder of U.S. Defense contractor Anduril Industries, and Chinese state media highlights a growing trend: increasingly public scrutiny of next-generation combat aircraft. Luckey’s casual questioning of the J-35’s capabilities, captured in a social media post, sparked a swift response from the Global Times, underscoring the sensitivity surrounding advancements in military aviation.
The J-35 and China’s Aviation Ambitions
China’s presentation of the J-35A at the Singapore Airshow was part of a broader effort to showcase its expanding combat aviation portfolio. Alongside models of the J-20 stealth fighter, Y-20 transport aircraft, and Z-20 helicopter, the J-35A represents a key element in China’s pursuit of air superiority. According to Wang Yongqing, a chief expert at the J-35A’s design institute, the aircraft is designed for air superiority missions with secondary strike capabilities.
A Tape Measure and a Diplomatic Flare-Up
Luckey’s act of measuring a J-35A model with a tape measure was dismissed by Chinese analysts as unserious and lacking technical merit. Zhang Xuefeng, a Chinese military affairs expert, pointed out the inadequacy of using a tape measure for accurate aircraft assessment, emphasizing the need for specialized tools and classified data. The incident quickly evolved into a broader discussion about the professionalism of public commentary on military technology.
Unmanned Systems and the Shifting Landscape of Defense
The Global Times also noted the irony of Luckey, whose company Anduril focuses on unmanned systems, evaluating a manned combat aircraft. Anduril has become a significant supplier to the U.S. Military, specializing in autonomous systems and loitering munitions. This focus reflects a broader trend in defense: a growing emphasis on unmanned technologies and their potential to reshape the battlefield.
Geopolitical Implications and the Unreliable Entity List
Anduril’s involvement in arms sales to Taiwan has already drawn criticism from Beijing. In January 2025, China’s Ministry of Commerce added Anduril to its “Unreliable Entity List” in response to these sales. This demonstrates how commercial activities can become entangled in geopolitical tensions, particularly in the sensitive realm of defense technology.
The Rise of Open-Source Intelligence and Military Analysis
The Luckey-J-35 exchange also points to a broader trend: the increasing role of open-source intelligence (OSINT) and public analysis in military affairs. Social media platforms and online forums are now key venues for discussing and debating military capabilities, often blurring the lines between expert commentary and amateur speculation. This increased transparency can be both beneficial and challenging, potentially revealing sensitive information while also fostering a more informed public discourse.
The Future of Air Combat: Stealth, Autonomy, and Information Warfare
The focus on aircraft like the J-35 and F-35 highlights several key trends shaping the future of air combat. Stealth technology remains paramount, but is increasingly complemented by advancements in electronic warfare, cyber capabilities, and artificial intelligence. The ability to gather, process, and share information will be crucial for gaining a decisive advantage in future conflicts. Autonomous systems, like those developed by Anduril, are poised to play an increasingly important role, augmenting manned aircraft and potentially operating independently.
FAQ
Q: What is the J-35?
A: The J-35 is a Chinese-built stealth fighter jet designed for air superiority and strike missions.
Q: Who is Palmer Luckey?
A: Palmer Luckey is the founder of Anduril Industries and previously founded Oculus VR, the company behind the Oculus Rift virtual reality headset.
Q: What is Anduril Industries?
A: Anduril Industries is a U.S. Defense contractor specializing in autonomous systems, sensors, and military technology.
Q: Why did China criticize Luckey?
A: China criticized Luckey after he publicly questioned the capabilities of the J-35 fighter jet at the Singapore Airshow.
Q: What is the “Unreliable Entity List”?
A: It’s a list created by China’s Ministry of Commerce of entities deemed to be acting against China’s interests, often in response to arms sales or other perceived offenses.
Did you know? The F-35 program, despite its advanced capabilities, has faced numerous challenges, including cost overruns and technical delays.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about advancements in military technology requires following a diverse range of sources, including official government reports, industry publications, and independent analysis.
What are your thoughts on the future of air combat? Share your insights in the comments below!
