In a major leap forward in military technology, China has unveiled a 6 G-powered electronic warfare system designed to disrupt modern radar systems, including those used by the US F-35 stealth fighter jet. Announced in June 2025, this cutting-edge development marks a pivotal moment in the global race for technological supremacy, combining next-generation communications capabilities with cutting-edge electronic warfare strategies. This blog explores the features, implications, and strategic importance of China’s new 6G system, offering insights into its potential to reshape modern warfare.
What is China’s 6G Electronic Warfare System?
China’s latest electronic warfare system is the world’s first publicly demonstrated platform that leverages 6G technology for simultaneous jamming and communication functions. Developed by researchers led by Professor Deng Li at Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), the system integrates a photon-powered core that operates at high frequencies, specifically targeting X-band radars such as the Northrop Grumman AN/APG-85 used in the F-35. Unlike traditional electronic warfare systems, which rely on separate channels for jamming and communication, the platform utilizes a single signal processing channel, enabling seamless operation within the same high-frequency spectrum.
The system’s photonic architecture, which uses light particles (photons) instead of traditional electrons, allows for faster signal processing, reduced electromagnetic interference, and lower power consumption. It is capable of producing more than 3,600 misleading signals that imitate genuine radar reflections, effectively confusing and overwhelming enemy radar systems. Additionally, the system doubles as a high-speed communications hub, capable of transmitting battlefield data to over 300 platforms via fiber-optic networks, making it a versatile tool for multi-domain warfare.
Key Features of the 6G System
- Photon-Driven Technology: The use of a microwave photonic radio frequency front end enables precise signal manipulation, allowing the system to intercept and mimic enemy radar signals with sub-millisecond timing. This capability can deceive modern radar systems by injecting artificial targets that are difficult to distinguish from real ones.
- Simultaneous Jamming and Communication: The system’s dual-polarisation IQ modulator allows it to perform full-duplex communication and jamming on the same frequency, a first in electronic warfare. This eliminates the need for frequency separation, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.
- High-Frequency Precision: Operating above 12 GHz, the system directly targets the X-band frequency range used by modern AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radars, such as those on the F-35, making it a formidable counter to stealth technology.
- Compact and Efficient Design: By consolidating complex functionalities into a streamlined architecture, the system reduces the need for extensive hardware, reduces power consumption and improves deployment in contested environments.
- Broad Operational Bandwidth: The photonic core supports a wider bandwidth than traditional electronic systems, enabling it to adapt to different radar frequencies and maintain performance in dynamic electromagnetic environments.
Strategic Implications for the F-35 and U.S. Air Power
The F-35 Lightning II, the cornerstone of American air superiority, relies heavily on its AN/APG-81 AESA radar and ASQ-239 Barracuda electronic warfare system for situational awareness and threat identification. China’s 6G system poses a direct challenge to the F-35’s radar performance by accurately jamming and potentially knocking it down through false target generation. It could disrupt the jet’s sensor fusion, data-sharing networks, and ability to maintain stealth advantages in contested airspace.
The system’s ability to generate thousands of decoy signals could overwhelm F-35 pilots, complicating their ability to discern real threats from false ones. Additionally, its high-speed communications capabilities enable real-time coordination with other Chinese military assets, potentially enhancing China’s anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategies in regions such as the South China Sea or the Taiwan Strait.
However, the F-35 is equipped with advanced countermeasures, including its own jamming capabilities and multispectral sensors, which can mitigate some of the system’s effects. The United States has also invested in next-generation technologies, such as the F-35 Block 4 upgrade and the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, to maintain its edge against emerging threats.
China’s Broader 6G Ambitions
The electronic warfare system is part of China’s broader push to dominate 6G technology, which promises data transmission rates of up to 100 Gbps and latency of less than 1 millisecond, capabilities far exceeding those of current 5G networks. China currently holds the largest portfolio of 6 G-related patents globally, surpassing the United States and signaling its intent to lead in both military and civilian applications of next-generation communications.
The development, funded by the Chinese government, military, and major tech firms, underscores Beijing’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces. By integrating 6G into electronic warfare, China aims to create a multi-domain battlefield advantage by combining sensing, analysis, and transmission in a single platform. This convergence of communications, radar, and electronic warfare applications could redefine how future conflicts are fought.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite its development, China’s 6G system faces challenges. The researchers noted a “tangle between system simplification and functional enhancement,” indicating that further improvements are needed to reduce the number of components and power consumption while improving signal quality. The system’s effectiveness against the F-35 in real-world conditions remains untested, as the claims are based on simulated and controlled environments.
Moreover, the United States and its partners are actively responding and adapting to the situation. The F-35’s electronic warfare suite, including radar jamming pods and toad decoys, is designed to counter the latest threats. The United States is also exploring alternative materials and supply chain strategies to mitigate vulnerabilities, such as China’s control of key minerals like gallium, which is essential for the F-35’s radar and communications systems.
Geopolitical and Military Implications
The unveiling of the 6G system comes amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, particularly around Taiwan and the South China Sea. China’s growing anti-stealth capabilities, including the JY-27V radar and now this 6G platform, challenge the perceived vulnerability of US stealth aircraft. If deployed in disputed areas, the system could complicate air operations for the US and its allies, such as Japan and Australia, both of which operate F-35s.
Globally, China’s development could affect the balance of power. If exported to nations such as Pakistan or Iran, the technology could complicate air operations for US allies such as India or Israel. The system’s mobility and cost-effectiveness also make it an attractive option for smaller nations looking to boost their air defense capabilities.
The Road Ahead
China’s 6G electronic warfare system marks a major milestone in the technological arms race, signaling the growing convergence of communications and electronic warfare. While it poses a credible threat to advanced platforms like the F-35, its real-world effectiveness will depend on factors such as operator training, system integration, and resilience against countermeasures.
For the United States, this development underscores the need for continued investment in electronic warfare, stealth technology, and supply chain security. Programs like NGAD and the F-35 Block 4 upgrade will be critical to maintaining air superiority. At the same time, China’s lead in 6G technology patents and control over essential minerals highlights a wider strategic issue that goes far beyond military concerns.
