China has reportedly begun mass-producing what it calls the world’s first ultra-low-noise, four-channel single-photon detector—dubbed the “photon catcher.” Developed by the Quantum Information Engineering Technology Research Centre in Anhui Province, the system is designed to detect individual photons, the fundamental particles of light. This capability could, in theory, allow China to detect and track stealth aircraft such as the U.S. F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, which are designed to evade traditional radar systems.
Chinese state and military media celebrated the development as a major breakthrough. The Global Times described the photon catcher as “positioning China at the forefront of quantum information technology,” and emphasized that mass production marks a significant step toward “technological self-sufficiency” by removing reliance on foreign suppliers for key components. State broadcaster CCTV went further, calling the new system a “game changer” that could transform modern air defense.
According to reports, the photon catcher works by detecting the extremely faint light particles that reflect off aircraft designed to minimize radar signatures. This would theoretically make it possible to track stealth jets at much greater distances than current radar systems allow, potentially undermining one of the United States’ primary military advantages in the Pacific.
The announcement also coincides with the completion of a test flight for China’s second KJ-3000 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, which is scheduled to enter service by 2027 and has a reported range of 10,000 kilometers.
Over the past several years, China has accelerated its investment in radar, space, and quantum technologies aimed at countering U.S. and allied air power. The move comes amid surging tensions with Washington, following Beijing’s decision last week to impose strict export controls on rare earth minerals vital to U.S. defense and technology industries.
In response, President Donald Trump has threatened to impose additional 100% tariffs on Chinese imports beginning November 1st, raising fears of a renewed full-scale trade war between the world’s two largest economies.