Top Chinese Military Engineers Dismissed Amid Anti-Corruption Drive: Questions Loom Over J-20 Fighter Program

Two prominent officials of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) — Yang Wei, chief designer of the J-20 stealth fighter, and Hao Zhaoping, a rocket expert — were unexpectedly removed from their positions, sparking widespread speculation. The dismissals are widely linked to an intensified anti-corruption campaign within the Chinese military-industrial complex.

Yang Wei, often referred to as the “father of the J-20,” played a key role in advancing China’s domestic fighter program, steering its evolution from second- to fifth-generation technology. His abrupt dismissal has generated significant interest, particularly due to his pivotal role in designing China’s first stealth fighter. AVIC’s official website quietly removed Yang’s resume on January 18 without providing any explanation.

Similarly, Hao Zhaoping, a veteran of China’s aerospace industry and general manager of AVIC since 2020, was dismissed despite being years away from the usual retirement age for senior officials in state enterprises. No details have been disclosed about the reasons for their removal or their next assignments.

Anti-Corruption Campaign Extends to Military-Industrial Complex

China’s ongoing anti-corruption drive has expanded into various sectors, including the Rocket Force, the Equipment Development Department of the Central Military Commission, and state-run aerospace and military enterprises. In 2023, Tan Ruisong, AVIC’s former chairman, was investigated, and other senior officials have disappeared from the public eye, raising suspicions of corruption probes.

Experts suggest Yang Wei and Hao Zhaoping’s dismissals could either stem from corruption allegations or factional struggles within the military-industrial system. Chen Daoyin, a Chinese political analyst, noted that the anti-corruption campaign aligns with President Xi Jinping’s vision to strengthen the army by 2025. “The infusion of resources into the military-industrial system creates opportunities for corruption,” Chen said, adding that factional rivalries within the system might also have contributed to the dismissals.

Speculations on J-20 Program and Military Readiness

Military analysts have also raised concerns about the performance of the J-20 fighter. Shen Ming-chamber, director of Taiwan’s National Defense and Security Research Institute, suggested that potential shortcomings in the J-20’s design or production may have played a role in Yang’s removal. He cited issues such as inadequate stealth capabilities and inferior engine performance compared to the U.S. F-22 fighter, which the J-20 was designed to rival.

“The J-20’s stealth features are insufficient, and the engine lacks a protective cover,” Shen noted. “If the aircraft fails to meet operational expectations, it could undermine the PLA’s confidence in its weapons and its readiness for military engagements, particularly regarding Taiwan.”

The J-20 is considered a critical component of the PLA’s strategy to deter Taiwan, but doubts about its effectiveness could influence strategic decision-making. Shen also linked the dismissal to Xi Jinping’s denial of a 2027 timeline for a potential military offensive against Taiwan, a move that has raised questions about the PLA’s readiness.

Corruption and Delays in Weapons Development

Taiwanese military expert Li Zhengxiu highlighted corruption as a persistent issue in China’s military-industrial sector, potentially leading to flawed weapons development. “The long and costly process of research and development allows room for embezzlement, which can delay projects or result in subpar equipment,” he said.

Li cited previous cases of corruption within the Rocket Force and other military branches, emphasizing how such practices could erode trust in the military-industrial system.

New Leadership and the Challenges Ahead

In the wake of Hao Zhaoping’s dismissal, AVIC appointed Wei Yingbiao, a former deputy general manager of the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), as its new general manager. Last year, Zhou Xinmin, a former COMAC executive, was named AVIC chairman.

Political scientist Chen Daoyin described this reshuffling as a potential step toward reform but warned it could disrupt the system. “Bringing in outsiders may help curb corruption, but there’s a risk that ‘laymen leading experts’ could hinder innovation and efficiency,” Chen said.

Broader Implications for Xi Jinping’s Authority

The ongoing anti-corruption campaign has already led to the downfall of several high-ranking officials, including former Defense Minister Li Shangfu and key commanders of the Rocket Force. While the campaign strengthens Xi Jinping’s control over the military, it also risks exposing vulnerabilities within his administration.

“If these dismissals involve Xi’s allies, it could raise questions about his judgment,” Shen Ming-chamber said. “However, if the campaign succeeds in rooting out corruption and revitalizing the PLA, it could bolster his authority ahead of the 21st National Congress in 2027.”

As Xi Jinping continues to push for military modernization and anti-corruption reforms, the dismissals of Yang Wei and Hao Zhaoping underscore the complex challenges of balancing internal stability, factional politics, and the drive for technological advancement in China’s defense sector.