China unveils over 100 advanced radars, capable to track US stealth fighter jets

At the 11th World Radar Expo in Hefei, China displayed over 100 state-of-the-art radar systems, including the impressive mobile meter-wave radar JY-27V, which Chinese media claim can detect US fifth-generation stealth fighter jets such as the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II.

Developed by the state-owned China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC), the JY-27V is a highly mobile air surveillance radar mounted on a military truck, Caliber.Az reports via The Eurasian Times. 

This next-generation system integrates a low-frequency band, a high-power aperture, and advanced intelligent algorithms, enabling precise detection of stealth aircraft and coordination of air defence strikes. CETC called it a “master artist” in stealth detection, highlighting its large antenna array and rapid deployment capability — it can be set up or retracted in just 10 minutes.

Xu Haizhou, a CETC scientist, told the state-run Xinhua news agency that the radar’s antenna folds and unfolds smoothly and quietly. The JY-27V uses a large active electronically scanned array (AESA) with very high-frequency (VHF) radio waves, improving on its predecessor, the JY-27A radar unveiled in 2016. Compared to the older model, the JY-27V boasts a larger antenna, lower operating frequency, greater power aperture, and enhanced algorithms — all boosting its stealth detection ability.

“The larger the antenna diameter, the farther the range of detection is,” Xu said. In 2016, China claimed the JY-27A could detect stealth fighters from over 250 kilometres away, possibly using it alongside the ultra-high-frequency YLC-8B radar.

Radar works by sending radio waves that bounce off objects and return signals for detection. Stealth jets reduce radar detection by shaping aircraft to deflect waves and using radar-absorbing materials (RAM). However, RAM is less effective against longer wavelengths like those used by meter-wave radars such as the JY-27V.

Besides the JY-27V, CETC also showcased the upgraded YLC-8E UHF radar, offering long-range early warning and enhanced anti-stealth and anti-jamming capabilities. The SLC-7 intelligence radar, capable of tracking multiple targets with high accuracy and speed, was also presented.

Additional displays included the JY-11 S-band counter-drone radar, the YLC-12 C-band multirole radar for detecting low-flying and maneuverable targets, and the JYL-1 long-range 3D surveillance radar designed for harsh environments.

Together, these cutting-edge systems underscore CETC’s leading role in radar innovation and manufacturing.

By Naila Huseynova