Top Honours for Engineers Spotlight China’s Gains in Military Technology
By Liu Zhen, South China Morning Post
Published: 2:00pm, 23 November 2025
China’s latest breakthroughs in military technology have been underscored by the recent elevation of several key engineers to the prestigious Chinese Academy of Engineering. This move highlights China’s rapid advancements and growing global influence in the fields of stealth fighter jets and aircraft carrier systems.
Leading Figures in Military Innovation Recognized
Among the 71 new members inducted on Friday were three standout scientists at the forefront of China’s cutting-edge military projects:
- Wang Yongqing, chief designer and expert behind the J-35A stealth fighter
- Huang Weina, lead designer of the WS-19 engine powering the J-35A series
- Lu Junyong, a principal researcher involved in the development of the Fujian aircraft carrier’s electromagnetic catapult system
Election to the Chinese Academy of Engineering represents the highest honour in the nation for engineers and technologists who have made extraordinary contributions to their fields, reflecting the critical importance Beijing places on technological innovation for national defense.
Breakthroughs in Stealth and Carrier Launch Systems
Wang Yongqing’s work on the J-35A stealth fighter is emblematic of China’s push to close the gap with global leaders in combat aircraft design. The J-35A integrates advanced stealth capabilities and next-generation avionics to enhance China’s air superiority and strike potential.
Complementing this, Huang Weina has been instrumental in developing the WS-19 engine, a powerful and reliable powerplant designed to maximize the performance of the J-35 series. The WS-19 is a crucial component that supports the jet’s agility, range, and covert operational capabilities.
On the naval front, Lu Junyong is part of an elite research team led by Ma Weiming at the PLA Naval University of Engineering. The team developed China’s first electromagnetic catapult launch system, a significant technological leap that equips the new Fujian aircraft carrier with advanced aircraft launch capabilities. Unlike older steam catapult systems, electromagnetic catapults allow for smoother and more efficient aircraft launches, enabling greater sortie rates and reduced maintenance costs.
Ma Weiming, revered for pioneering earlier steam-catapult concepts, set a precedent by becoming the academy’s youngest member in 2001 at just 41 years old. His mentorship continues through the success of researchers like Lu Junyong, marking a new generation of innovators driving China’s naval modernization.
China’s Expanding Military Technological Edge
The inclusion of these engineers in the academy not only celebrates their individual achievements but also signals China’s growing strategic capabilities on the world stage. Their work in stealth fighter technology and advanced aircraft carrier systems points to a broader trend of China taking a leadership role in military technology innovation.
These advancements are part of a sustained national effort to strengthen China’s defense by fostering homegrown technological breakthroughs, reducing reliance on foreign imports, and challenging the dominance of established military powers.
As China continues to invest in and prioritize science and engineering talent, experts like Wang Yongqing, Huang Weina, and Lu Junyong exemplify the country’s commitment to securing its defense future through innovation and excellence.
This article is based on reporting by the South China Morning Post.
