As global leaders, China, the United States, and Russia are subject to intense scrutiny over every move they make. With each nation holding significant military power, maintaining military strength is a top priority. Should a conflict arise, their military capabilities will be analyzed closely.

In modern warfare, air combat is a critical area of concern. Aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, and tanks are often compared, and today we will focus on the level of conventional heavy warfare between China, the United States, and Russia.

American F-15 The F-15 and F-15E heavy fighters currently in service with the United States are still in the spotlight. As the US has not introduced many new models of conventional heavy fighters in recent years, these two aircraft have been in service for a while.

Despite not being as flashy as newer aircraft, the F-15 is still a top-performing aircraft. With advanced swept-wing aerodynamic design and two turbofan engines, it has superior maneuverability and combat capability. It can use advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles to destroy enemy fighters and perform air superiority and air-to-ground combat tasks.

Since entering service in 1976, the F-15 has undergone several upgrades, including improvements to the engine compartment, structures, space-to-ground attack, air superiority capabilities, and upgraded weapon pylons. It can now carry more weaponry and features a cutting-edge electronic display system in the cockpit.

The F-15E can deploy satellite-launching missiles at an altitude of 12,191 meters, making it a highly potent aircraft. When compared to other American heavy fighters, the F-15E remains competitive. However, its age puts it at a disadvantage when compared to newer aircraft, such as those in China.

Russia’s Su-35 Russia’s Su-35 heavy fighter is one of the most advanced aircraft of its kind. It is an upgrade to the Su-27, featuring twin engines and a single-seater design that can be used for a range of missions. Compared to other fighters around the world, it represents a fourth-generation upgrade, and it offers more benefits than the American F-15.

Since entering service in 2014, the Su-35 has been deployed in Russia’s operations against Ukraine, making it a battle-tested aircraft. It is a versatile fighter that can control the skies and launch attacks from the ground. As a mainstream development of the country’s military, the Su-35 is considered an essential component of Russia’s military strength.

China purchased 24 Su-35s from Russia, marking the first time China had bought a significant amount of military equipment from Russia in the 21st century. The Su-35 was linked to the Chinese Air Force system and used for battle, enhancing China’s military capabilities.

China’s J-16 The J-16 is a Chinese multirole fighter aircraft with a semi-two-seater design and two engines. It took its first flight in 2016 and has since become a favorite of the Chinese military forces. Despite being a heavy fighter without stealth capabilities, it offers impressive overall combat capabilities that are second only to the J-20.

With formidable air-to-air and ground-to-ground attack capabilities, the J-16 is often chosen for simultaneous air-to-air and ground-to-ground operations. It boasts advanced radar and avionics equipment, making it one of the best fighter jets globally.

In conclusion, while each country has its strengths and weaknesses in heavy warfare, the F-15, Su-35, and J-16 are all potent aircraft, offering unique features that make them suitable for specific missions.