OVERVIEW: The J-16D Roaring Wolf is a twin-engine, tandem-seat, 4.5 generation electronic warfare (EW) aircraft based on the J-16 multirole fighter. It is optimized for electronic attack and suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) missions.

DETAILS: The J-16D was developed by China as an indigenous electronic warfare variant of the J-16 fighter, itself derived from the Su-30MKK airframe and systems. It was designed to neutralize adversary radar and air defense systems using jamming and anti-radiation strike capabilities. The J-16D features extensive modifications including internal EW systems and underwing pods. It is powered by two turbofan engines, has an estimated maximum speed of around Mach 2.0, and its combat radius is approximately 1,500 km. It retains 10 hardpoints, but some weapon capacity is replaced with ECM pods and electronic systems.

The “D” in J-16D stands for “Dianzi” (电子), meaning “electronic,” indicating its dedicated electronic warfare role. Compared to the base J-16, it lacks the internal cannon and some passive sensors, replaced with internal EW equipment and wingtip pods believed to be for radar jamming. It is also equipped to carry anti-radiation missiles like the LD-10 and potentially others for SEAD operations.

TYPE: Electronic Warfare Fighter

FUNCTION: The J-16D is used for escort jamming, standoff electronic attack, and suppression of enemy radar systems to enable strike packages or deny adversary air defense coverage. It provides the PLA with a critical airborne electronic warfare capability in support of modern network-centric operations.

NOTE:
IOC: 2015 (J-16 base), 2021 (J-16D)
Manufacturer: Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (China)
Operators: China
Conflict used in: Not publicly known as of 2025

SOURCE:
Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China: http://eng.mod.gov.cn ; Chinese Military Aviation: http://chinese-military-aviation.blogspot.com ; Janes Air-Launched Weapons: https://www.janes.com ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://www.sipri.org/databases/armstransfers ; The Diplomat: https://thediplomat.com/2021/11/chinas-j-16d-electronic-warfare-aircraft-breaks-cover-at-zhuhai-airshow