China steps closer to sixth-generation air superiority PHOTO/VIDEO

A new video has surfaced showing the prototype of China’s highly anticipated sixth-generation fighter jet, the Chengdu J-36, undergoing test flights under the banner of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The advanced aircraft was seen flying in formation with the fifth-generation Chengdu J-20, highlighting the growing sophistication of China’s combat aviation program.

This is not the first sighting of the J-36 over populated areas, suggesting that test operations have entered a more active and public phase, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Public awareness of the Chengdu J-36 project emerged toward the end of 2024, following a series of media leaks and expert analyses. The first satellite images—believed to depict the aircraft—were published on December 26, 2024, showing a stealthy, tailless design conducting taxi trials at an undisclosed airbase.

While the PLAAF has not issued any official statements regarding the aircraft, defence analysts widely classify it as a sixth-generation fighter. Reported capabilities include cutting-edge stealth technology based on a “flying wing” configuration, an adaptive-cycle engine for enhanced performance and efficiency, and integrated artificial intelligence systems enabling real-time coordination with both manned and unmanned platforms.

Experts suggest that the J-36 is designed to secure air superiority in the mid-21st century battlespace, marking a significant step forward in China’s efforts to compete with next-generation programs in the United States and allied nations.

By Vafa Guliyeva