China's J‑36 fighter: Stealthy, maneuverable, and mysterious
On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, the Chinese J-36 fighter jet conducted its third test flight, revealing new details about its design, reports Bulgarian Military. Pictures released online show a sleek aircraft in a tailless flying wing configuration with a double delta layout, featuring stealth technology and high maneuverability.
The service noted that the photographs show the J-36 in flight with deployed landing gear, climbing at a sharp angle. The delta-wing configuration, celebrated for its excellent maneuverability, has been upgraded to meet the demands of modern armed conflicts. Notably, the J-36 lacks traditional vertical stabilizers, suggesting the use of an advanced fly-by-wire system, which reduces radar visibility—crucial for modern fighters.
J-36 - new Chinese fighter jet
Experts like Dr. Emily Carter from the Center for Strategic and International Studies suggest that the J-36 might be used to penetrate heavily defended airspaces. Its maneuverability and stealth capabilities make it a versatile tool in potential conflicts. Significantly, the development of the J-36 aligns with China's broader efforts to modernize its national air forces, and the introduction of this fighter could impact the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Chengdu J-36 is the latest project of the Chinese aviation industry, first appearing publicly on December 26, 2024. As we previously reported, its length is estimated at approximately 72 feet, and its wingspan at nearly 66 feet. The J-36 is powered by three engines, an unusual solution in modern fighters, likely allowing it to achieve supersonic speeds without using afterburners (supercruise).
The wide fuselage suggests a significant capacity for internal weapon bays, capable of carrying various air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles. Meanwhile, the presence of advanced electro-optical sensors indicates the ability to conduct operations in diverse combat conditions, emphasizing high situational awareness.
It is worth noting, however, that Chinese J-36 fighters remain shrouded in mystery, and information about them is scarce and unconfirmed. Official sources lack specific data regarding this model.
