China's J-20 Pilot Claims 'First Look' Advantage Over U.S. F-22 Raptor

A top Chinese J-20 'Mighty Dragon' pilot has claimed the aircraft possesses superior situational awareness, enabling it to detect the American F-22 Raptor first in an engagement. The pilot suggested this capability would provide a critical 'first look, first shot' advantage in air combat. This claim is reportedly based on the J-20's advanced sensor suite, which may include a sophisticated Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system designed to counter stealth aircraft. While the F-22 is renowned for its low-observable characteristics, its older sensor technology is a point of concern when compared to newer platforms. If true, this assertion represents a significant challenge to the assumed air superiority of U.S. fifth-generation fighters.

Official Source: https://www.19fortyfive.com/2026/04/move-over-f-22-and-f-35-chinas-j-20-mighty-dragon-stealth-fighter-might-see-the-raptor-first/

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