China advances stealth prowess: New J‑36 fighter unveiled
A new video has surfaced online showing a next-generation Chinese fighter jet, the J-36, accompanied in the air by the J-20. It is unclear whether the aircraft in the video is a prototype or an advanced technology demonstrator. However, it shows that Beijing continues to work on sixth-generation fighters.
According to Bulgarian Military, a new recording has appeared online showcasing one of the latest projects of the Chinese defence industry. It features the J-36 fighter accompanied by the J-20. The latter, painted yellow, suggests it is one of the prototypes used by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation during test flights. The J-36 is likely a sixth-generation fighter, but information about it is currently very limited.
Chinese fighters in flight
The Chengdu J-36 is the latest project of the Chinese aviation industry, first appearing publicly on December 25, 2024. The aircraft features a tailless flying wing design in a double-delta configuration to maximize stealth properties. Its length is estimated to be approximately 22 metres, and its wingspan is close to 20 metres. The J-36 is powered by three engines, an unusual solution for modern fighters. This likely allows it to achieve supersonic speeds without the use of afterburners (supercruise).
The wide fuselage suggests significant internal weapons bay capacity, capable of carrying various air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. Advanced electro-optical sensors indicate the capability to conduct operations in various combat conditions, emphasising high situational awareness.
A lot more is known about the J-20 fighters, also known as the "Mighty Dragon." It is a fifth-generation Chinese fighter that entered service in 2017. Its design includes stealth technology, such as concealed DSI-type air inlets and internal weapons bays, which minimize its radar signature. The J-20 is equipped, among other things, with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and electro-optical systems, providing the pilot with enhanced situational awareness.
The main weapons bay can accommodate up to four medium- or long-range air-to-air missiles, such as the PL-15, while the side bays are intended for short-range missiles, such as the PL-10. Initially, the J-20 was powered by Russian AL-31FM2 engines, but as the program progressed, they were replaced with Chinese WS-10C units. Ultimately, the plan is to use WS-15 engines, which are expected to provide better performance, including the capability for supercruise.
It is worth noting that the aircraft visible in the recording is the Chengdu J-20S, a two-seater version of the J-20. It is the world's first two-seat stealth fighter, officially unveiled in November 2024 during the Zhuhai Airshow. Available information suggests that the J-20S was designed to expand the operational capabilities of the standard J-20.
