China is making a massive push to quickly produce large numbers of 5th-generation J-20 jets, a move which could further solidify the People’s Liberation Army Air Force as a dominant regional power.
J-20s and F-35s
Being without a carrier-launched 5th-generation fighter able to project power from the sea, China would likely rely upon its land-launched J-20 in any kind of regional engagement.
Clearly when it comes to projecting power beyond the Pacific in the air, it seems China might be quite challenged to compete with US airpower.
However, when it comes to regional power, they would likely be more of a factor. Both Japan and Taiwan are close enough for a land launched J-20 to reach from mainland China, without needing a tanker.
China may only have roughly 50 J-20s or so according to several news reports, a scenario which could make them vulnerable even in a regional confrontation in the Pacific.