China’s new super-jet, because Beijing’s ‘invisible’ fighter changes everything

China takes off its new jet. Beijing’s latest fighter, a sixth generation jet, takes offthe test is documented with photos and videos that bounce around social media and fuel the debate on the characteristics of the aircraft which, at least for now, remains largely shrouded in mystery. The operations involve a Chengdu J-20 fighter and this suggests that the flight took place in the area of ​​the base associated with the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) plant.

The images – easily available online, as if Beijing wanted to show off its latest jewel – arouse the interest of experts, who try to analyze the aircraft and outline its basic characteristics, in the absence of communications from the Chinese Ministry of Defense. The design makes you think of a Stealth, an aircraft capable of avoiding radar control. The apparent absence of a ‘tail’ would favor efficiency at an aerodynamic level, also with a view to long-range missions, but could partially affect maneuverability in a framework characterized – most likely – by the most modern control systems.

third lap pic.twitter.com/GvKReHJ3sm

— 东风(@eastwind6699) December 26, 2024

From the images, regarding dimensions, the new creature appears comparable to a J-20, which exceeds 21 meters in length. The ‘size’, thanks to the profile of the wings, suggests a significant quantity of potentially transportable fuel. This element also reinforces the idea that the new aircraft is particularly suitable for long flights: with a fighter of similar characteristics, China would fill a gap in its military air force and would have at its disposal a new weapon capable of hitting targets and areas hitherto considered not reachable from Beijing. To support an aircraft of this size it is believed that at least 3 engines are required. The debate remains open on the number of pilots on board: one or two?