Chinese researchers have developed a computer simulation indicating that a missile-mounted lidar system could detect and track an F-35 stealth fighter at distances up to 61.5 kilometers under ideal nighttime conditions. The model, created by the China Airborne Missile Academy, which focuses on air-to-air missile research and production, suggests that such a capability could impact the F-35’s operational survivability when confronted by Chinese stealth fighters.

The study explored the potential use of single-photon lidar technology, which employs reflected laser light to detect extremely low numbers of photons returning from a target—distinct from traditional radar systems that use radio waves. Researchers developed a mathematical model for a missile-borne single-photon array lidar operating at a wavelength of 1,064 nanometers. This model included considerations for detector dead time (the sensor’s recovery period between detections), atmospheric transmission over 15 kilometers, and background noise from sky brightness, atmospheric backscatter, and detector dark counts.

The simulation used constraints consistent with missile size and power limitations, employing low-power 1.0 millijoule laser pulses and a compact 100mm lens. According to the study, the lidar system would require a signal-to-noise ratio of 8.8 decibels—equivalent to at least 9.4 detected echo photons—to overcome atmospheric noise and successfully lock onto an F-35C aircraft.

Under daytime conditions, the simulated maximum detection range was 27.7 kilometers, extending to 61.5 kilometers at night. At 27.7 kilometers, the model predicted the system could capture target details with depth accuracy within 20 centimeters and transverse resolution within 50 centimeters. The findings were published on September 18 in the peer-reviewed Chinese journal Aero Weaponry.

While the proposed detection range could broaden a missile’s tracking window, it remains within the engagement envelope of the F-35’s own air-to-air weapons, such as the AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range missile and the AIM-120D-3 AMRAAM medium-range missile. These missiles have ranges between roughly 16 to over 160 kilometers, with the long-range AMRAAM capable of striking targets well beyond the lidar’s maximum detection distance.

However, some analysts have expressed skepticism about the practical application of such a laser-based system. One expert, speaking anonymously, argued that the narrow laser beam characteristic of lidar may limit its ability to function as an early-warning or wide-area search system, potentially serving more as a precise rangefinder rather than a broad scanning sensor.

The research highlights ongoing efforts by Chinese defense scientists to explore advanced technologies for countering stealth aircraft, though whether the theoretical model will translate into operational capability remains to be seen.