The debate about the J-20 vs. F-22 has been going on for over two decades. Both fighters can perform combat missions and offer a variety of benefits to the fleet. However, a new technology could be revolutionizing the combat experience. Airborne Tactical Augmented Reality System (ATESA) would allow a pilot to interact with a simulated J-20 enemy. This technology could help fleet aviators solve tactical problems and reduce their air combat training expenses.
WS-10C engine
Rumours abound that China will replace Russia's engine in the J-20 by a domestic WS-10C motor. China is trying to reduce their dependency on foreign engines. This new engine is expected more reliable and efficient. Comparing the engines is not an easy task. It's important to be aware of the differences between them.
PLA Air Force in January 2021 confirmed that the J-20 will come with a domestically manufactured WS-10C motor. This information was made available through a video to promote a pilot recruitment programme. The J-20 is expected to gain more maneuverability with the domestically developed WS-10C motor. A number of J-20s entering service will also indicate that the aircraft's technical capabilities are improving and is nearing mass production.
WS-15 nozzle
The WS-15 nozzle is designed to deliver a high thrust and excellent maneuverability for the J-20. The WS-15 nozzle is significantly more powerful than the F119 jet engine and will likely provide unmatched flight performance for the J-20. The WS-15 can also be used with thrust vector control.
PLAAF's J-20 program has cost them more than $4.4Billion. Each J-20 costs around $120 million. Its engines are Russian AL-31s, but China is currently trying to replace them with their own WS-15 nozzles. China has not been capable of replacing as many Russian engines that were originally predicted.
AESA
Both aircraft have similar capabilities. The main differences between the two aircraft are the engine and the range. The Russian AL-31FM2 Russian engine generates 145kN thrust while the F-22 engine produces 180kN thrust. Both have similar stealth designs, but the F-22 has axi-symmetric canards that are visible to radar.
The J-20 and F-22 are both AESA-equipped and carry their weapons in internal bays. The J-20 has some unique features that distinguish it from its American counterpart. It has a canard delta twin-engine configuration, supersonic intakes with diverted-less supersonic intakes, and a shaped nostril. The F-22 also features an active electronically scanned radar (AESA), while the J-20 has a gun system.
Infrared search and track
The IRST sensor is normally installed in a spherical, glass enclosure at the front of fighter aircrafts. The IRST sensor can scan a target's instantaneous area of view with either a staring array (or a single element). This sensor is not as effective at detecting distances as radar, but it provides accurate data on the location of targets.
However, the IRST sensor is old-style, and it will be less powerful than a civilian surveillance camera. It will be less effective at detecting targets within 80 km and slower at 20-30km. The F-22 will be more stealthy, faster, and more effective than the J-20. However, the J-20 is equipped with a superior IRST system.