China Develops Radar Cross Section Measurement Technology

China's Shenyang Aircraft Corporation which makes stealth aircraft such as the J-20 has developed technology to measure the radar cross section (RCS) of aircraft.

The RCS is a measure of an aircraft's visibility to radar. A lower RCS means it is relatively difficult to spot on radar.

"The J-20 is built by Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, and Shenyang Aircraft Corporation is also conducting research and development of another China-made stealth fighter, the FC-31, so the technology is very basic and essential," Song Zhongping, a military expert and TV commentator was quoted as saying by Global Times on Tuesday.

"If the RCS test can be used maturely, that means fourth-generation fighter jets including the J-11 and J-16 that form the main body of the Chinese air force and are produced by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, can also improve their stealth capabilities," Zhongping said.

The RCS index largely depends on the object's size, configuration and materials.

Although the older fighter jets in commission cannot change their aerodynamic configuration, they can reduce their index with a stealth coating, Song noted.

"This means that apart from the J-20, some other aircraft in the Chinese air force also have stealth capability," he said.

Only a few countries in the world have stealth testing capability: the US, Russia and a few EU members can conduct the test, according to the report.

The technology can also be used for navy vessels and armored ground vehicles.