China's mystery J‑36 fighter jet hinted in new video reveal
A new video has surfaced online showing a next-generation Chinese fighter jet, the J-36, flying alongside the J-20. Whether the aircraft in the video is a prototype or an advanced technology demonstrator is unclear. However, it serves as evidence that Beijing continues to work on developing sixth-generation fighters.
According to Bulgarian Military, a new recording has appeared online featuring one of the latest projects from the Chinese defense industry. The video shows the J-36 fighter accompanied by the J-20. The J-20 in the video is painted yellow, which suggests it is one of the prototypes used by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation during test flights. The J-36 is most likely a sixth-generation fighter, but information about it is currently very limited.
Chinese fighter jets 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, aiming to maximize stealth properties. Its length is estimated to be approximately 72 feet, and its wingspan is close to 66 feet. The J-36 is powered by three engines, an unusual choice for modern fighters. This likely allows it to achieve supersonic speeds without the use of afterburners (supercruise).
The wide fuselage suggests a significant internal weapons bay capacity, capable of carrying a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. The presence of advanced electro-optical sensors indicates the capability to conduct operations in various combat conditions, with an emphasis on high situational awareness.
Much 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 with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and electro-optical systems, which provide the pilot with 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, and ultimately, the plan is to use WS-15 engines, which are expected to provide better performance, including the capability for supercruise.
It's 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, 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.
