Top 10: China’s Fighter Jets in 2024

China possesses one of the world’s largest and most advanced fighter fleets. From older MiG clones to cutting-edge stealth jets, the country spans the full spectrum of air combat technology. Here’s an overview of the ten most important fighter jets in Chinese service—ranked by number in 2024, from the most widespread to the rarest.

#10: Sukhoi Su-35 – High-End Model in Limited Numbers

Only 24 Su-35s are in service with the Chinese Air Force. These jets were delivered from Russia between 2016 and 2018 and are used for specialized roles. With its 4++ generation technology and superior maneuverability, the Su-35 remains a valuable asset.

#9: Sukhoi Su-27 – An Era Coming to an End

Around 32 Su-27s remain in Chinese service. These Russian aircraft were acquired in the 1990s and significantly influenced the development of China’s own fighters. Today, they are mainly used for training purposes.

#8: Sukhoi Su-30 – Russian Multirole Fighter

China has approximately 97 Su-30s in active service. This multirole fighter is used by both the air force and navy and has proven especially effective in long-range operations. The aircraft still plays an important, albeit more limited, role in the overall arsenal.

#7: Shenyang J-11 – Chinese Flanker at Scale

The J-11, China’s version of the Su-27, exists in about 245 units. The newer J-11B and J-11BS variants feature Chinese technology and have strengthened the air force’s ability to maintain air superiority.

#6: Shenyang J-7 – Aging but Numerous

Despite its age, 289 J-7s remain in service in 2024. This aircraft is a Chinese-licensed version of the MiG-21 and is mostly used for training and border patrols. Phase-out is underway, but the fleet is still sizable.

#5: Shenyang J-16 – Modern Firepower

J-16 jets number over 300 in China’s arsenal. Developed from the Su-30 platform, the aircraft features advanced radar, weapons systems, and electronic warfare capabilities. It is among China’s most powerful fighters.

#4: Chengdu J-20 – Stealth Fighter on the Rise

China’s first 5th-generation stealth fighter, the J-20, now exists in over 300 units and continues to grow in number. With advanced stealth design, long range, and sophisticated electronics, it reflects China’s ambition for technological superiority.

#3: PLANAF Naval Fighters – Power Projection at Sea

The Chinese Navy’s air forces (PLANAF) operate a total of over 300 aircraft, including J-15s, Su-30MK2s, and certain J-10 variants. While these naval aircraft do not form a single model type, their combined number is significant and strategically vital for carrier operations.

#2: Chengdu J-10 – Versatile and Widespread

With around 608 J-10 fighters in service, this multirole jet is China’s most widely deployed modern combat aircraft. The J-10 is used for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions and remains in production in the advanced J-10C variant.

#1: Total Number of Fighter Jets – Full Arsenal Overview

In 2024, China possesses an estimated 1,800–2,000 fighter jets split between the air force (PLAAF) and the navy’s air forces (PLANAF). The fleet is rapidly modernizing, with older types like the J-7 being phased out in favor of modern aircraft like the J-10, J-16, and J-20—cementing China’s status as a leading air power on the global stage.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.