Military Watch Magazine

China’s J-20S Fighter Has the World’s First Dedicated Drone Controller Seat to Command ‘Wingmen’ Fleets

A recent report by Chinese state media on the continued modernisation of the J-20 fifth generation fighter has highlighted the role of the J-20S twin seat variant in optimising the design for operations alongside unmanned semi-autonomous combat jets. It highlights the the J-20S represents a further expansion of the design’s intended mission set, as while the front-seat pilot concentrates on flying and air combat, the second crew member can manage unmanned aircraft, coordinate information from multiple platforms and support mission planning against targets on land and at sea. The configuration could therefore help the aircraft act as an airborne command-and-control node, directing other assets while remaining capable of conducting its own combat missions, as work is shared between two personnel.