J-16D Electronic Warfare Fighter Jet

Full Specifications

Chinese J-16D Electronic Warfare Fighter Jet

The J 16D is China’s first purpose built electronic warfare fighter. It is designed to blind enemy radars, disrupt communications, and protect strike aircraft during high risk missions. Often compared to the US Navy EA 18G Growler, the J 16D reflects Beijing’s push to close the gap in airborne electronic attack.

Developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the J 16D is based on the twin engine J 16 multirole fighter, itself derived from the Russian Su 27 family. The aircraft removes its internal cannon and replaces traditional strike payloads with advanced jamming systems and electronic support equipment.

Design and Role

The J 16D is built to escort strike packages and conduct stand off electronic attack. Its mission includes suppression of enemy air defenses, radar jamming, signals intelligence collection, and support for air superiority operations.

The aircraft carries multiple external electronic warfare pods mounted on wing and centerline hardpoints. These pods are believed to provide wideband jamming, radar warning, and threat geolocation. An AESA radar supports situational awareness and targeting support, while a two seat cockpit allows one crew member to focus on electronic attack tasks.

Performance and Operations

Powered by two WS 10 turbofan engines, the J 16D can reach speeds close to Mach 2 and operate at long range. While its payload capacity is lower than the standard J 16, it retains air to air missiles for self defense.

The J 16D is operated by the People’s Liberation Army Air Force and Navy aviation units. It is intended to operate in contested airspace, especially in scenarios involving Taiwan or the Western Pacific.

J-16D Electronic Warfare Aircraft Price

There is no official export price. Open source estimates place the unit cost between 60 and 70 million US dollars, depending on sensors and electronic warfare systems.