China tests radar to hunt US stealth aircraft

Defense conglomerate Norinco is testing Terahertz frequency radar to enhance its ability to track US stealth aircraft.

Anti-stealth radar models launched by China in 2014. Illustration photo: Sina.

China North Defense Industry Corporation (Norinco) said it is testing a new radar model that has the potential to become a "game-changing" weapon for the Chinese military thanks to its ability to detect stealth fighters such as the US F-22 and F-35, SCMP reported on September 27.

In theory, the Terahertz radar can see through the composite materials and radar-absorbing paint covering the exterior of stealth aircraft. "The radar-absorbing paint on the F-35 will become transparent and as thin as nylon if the radar reaches its intended power. This new radar can be a million times more powerful than the devices used to measure the radar reflection of the F-35 fighter," said a Norinco technology expert.

However, devices using the Terahertz band are not yet ready for combat use. The technology will take time to perfect and miniaturize to equip early warning aircraft, fighters or spy satellites, said researcher Qi Jiaran of the Harbin Institute of Technology.

According to VNE