China's stealthy leap: Sixth-gen fighter takes flight
While the USA and Europe work on concepts for new fighter jets, China is already testing its prototype sixth-generation fighter. Here is what it might feature.
A new, previously unknown aircraft has been spotted in China, conceptually resembling sixth-generation fighters. Available footage shows it flying alongside the Chinese fifth-generation Chengdu J-20 fighter jet. The details or name of the new aircraft remain unknown. Still, flight tests prove that the Chinese project may be significantly more advanced than programs in the USA (Next Generation Air Dominance, NGAD) and European countries (Tempest and Global Combat Air Programme, or GCAP), which are currently in the conceptual phase.
The mysterious fighter is said to be the work of Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group (CAIG), and its appearance differs from what is currently used. It features a delta wing configuration without a vertical stabilizer, possibly to reduce aerodynamic drag.
Sixth-generation aircraft — the race for the fighter of the future continues
There is no set list of characteristics for sixth-generation machines, but several requirements appear in all ongoing programs. New aircraft are expected to have advanced electronic warfare capabilities beyond visual range target engagement and the ability to attack ground targets.
Additionally, they are expected to have better aerodynamics. This may require replacing traditional control surfaces that generate unnecessary drag with alternative solutions supported by artificial intelligence (AI) assisting the pilot.
Optional unmanned capabilities frequently appear, along with the potential use of energy weapons such as lasers, which the Americans are also working on. These points are linked to the necessity of providing a very efficient yet lightweight electrical power generator.
Propaganda stunt or real project?
While Western programs are still in the design phase and slowed by bureaucracy, the Chinese are taking action. However, it is also possible that this is an early propaganda stunt (a practice common in the PRC) aimed at demonstrating Beijing's superiority, even though the program is still in the very early stages of development.
It is worth noting that China is also conducting a strategic bomber program with the Xi'an H-20, which has been delayed several times, and its completion is still not in sight. Nonetheless, China possesses the technological capabilities, great power ambitions, and resources necessary to undertake such projects.
