Chinese researchers say missile lidar model can spot US F-35 at up to 61.5km - South China Morning Post
Chao Kongin BeijingPublished: 6:43pm, 30 Sep 2026Updated: 8:09pm, 30 Sep 2026A computer simulation developed by Chinese researchers suggests that a missile-borne system with the latest light detection and ranging system, or lidar, could detect and track an F-35 stealth fighter at up to 61.5km (38 miles) at night.
The theoretical model developed by a leading Chinese air force missile supplier says that under ideal conditions, the claimed range could have implications for the F-35βs ability to survive while facing Chinaβs stealth fighters.
But one analyst is sceptical that the development would allow the user to find a stealth target in a vast sky with a narrow laser beam.
In air-to-air combat, the F-35 can carry short-range missiles, such as the AIM-9X Sidewinder, which has a reported range of about 16km to 32km and uses an imaging infrared seeker.
