It appears that China has begun either deploying or at least testing a stealthy sixth-generation combat aircraft, with images of the jet starting to surface on social media. While there is not enough information to conclusively identify the aircraft, many design elements observed in the photos and videos align with what is already known about China’s efforts to develop a sixth-generation fighter.
In the video and photos, an unidentified aircraft can be seen performing a daytime test flight alongside a two-seat Chengdu J-20 fighter, which appears to be acting as a chase aircraft. The footage was likely captured near the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) airfield. As of now, China’s Ministry of Defense has not provided any official comments.
In addition to the large size of the new aircraft, its most striking feature is its tailless configuration. It features a modified delta wing with lines extending all the way to the nose, and the central part of the fuselage vaguely resembles that of the J-20. The wide nose may provide space for crew accommodation, but it’s still difficult to determine whether the aircraft has a single-seat or dual-seat configuration.
The removal of tailfins in next-generation tactical combat aircraft is also a concept being explored by the U.S. military. This design aims to reduce the aircraft’s radar signature across various frequencies and from all angles. Such a configuration offers certain aerodynamic benefits, especially for long-range operations, by reducing aerodynamic drag. However, the tailless design may negatively impact overall maneuverability. The engine nozzles on this mysterious aircraft are placed in an optimal position for masking the infrared signature, located at the rear of the fuselage, similar to the YF-23.
— Justin Bronk (@Justin_Br0nk) December 26, 2024
Although the tailless configuration, size, overall shape, and placement of the nozzles strongly suggest that China is developing a stealth and endurance-focused aircraft, it remains unclear how much more advanced its stealth capabilities will be. However, given the numerous technologies incorporated to enhance stealth, this aircraft is expected to represent a significant leap forward compared to the J-20.
The new aircraft appears to be comparable in size to the J-20, with images suggesting it is at least as long. One notable feature is its twin-wheel main landing gear, indicating the aircraft’s significant weight. Its large size likely reflects a focus on enhanced endurance. Another distinguishing characteristic is the placement of the air intakes. One intake is positioned on the upper fuselage, while there are also twin intakes on either side of the lower fuselage. This configuration might suggest an unconventional three-engine layout, which could be beneficial for sustained high-speed flight and operations at high altitudes.
At this stage, it is unclear whether the new aircraft is a prototype of a sixth-generation fighter or perhaps a more generalized demonstrator designed to test new technologies for various platforms. China is also conducting preliminary tests of different configurations for piloted fighter aircraft. These developments may involve demonstrators, and the new aircraft could be linked to them. Another possibility is that the aircraft is part of the classified JH-XX bomber development program being handled by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. However, it seems unlikely that a competitor’s aircraft would be involved in the escort.
第三圈 pic.twitter.com/GvKReHJ3sm
— 東風 (@eastwind6699) December 26, 2024
It can also be speculated that this aircraft might be linked to China’s version of the U.S. Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) initiative, which focuses on developing a piloted aircraft similar to a “fighter” that will operate as a control node for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). For this purpose, key attributes like flight range, cruising speed, payload capacity, and low observability are crucial. The fact that the aircraft was not concealed suggests that China may not be opposed to being noticed, potentially signaling a strategic move to showcase its capabilities.
Source: twz
