A jet thought to be China’s new J-36 was spotted flying above a highway close to the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group’s runway. CNN
New images of a powerful and advanced Chinese fighter jet have caused a stir. The jet, possibly named the J-36, features a sleek tailless shape and three engines. It recently appeared in a short video on Chinese social media. The footage shows the aircraft flying low over a highway near Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group’s runway in Sichuan.
Though the video’s date remains unknown, experts and enthusiasts quickly began discussing the unusual design. This isn’t the first time the J-36 has surfaced online. The first images appeared late last year, and more followed in recent weeks. Each time, the plane attracted attention from military analysts around the world.
Many believe this could be a sixth-generation fighter jet. That means it likely includes top-level stealth, powerful engines, and the latest avionics. If true, it would place China among the leaders in modern air combat technology.
David Cenciotti, a respected military aviation expert and former pilot, shared his thoughts on the jet. He pointed out that the J-36 has three engines. Two are tucked under the wings, and one sits behind the cockpit on the top side. This unusual setup might give the plane more thrust and better safety in case of engine failure.
He also noted that the jet’s underside seems to have space for hidden weapons bays. These could carry long-range missiles, keeping the jet stealthy during missions.
If the J-36 enters service, it could challenge the United States’ lead in next-generation fighters. At the moment, the U.S. uses the F-22 and F-35, both known for their strength and stealth. China has its own fifth-generation jets—the J-20 and J-35—but they haven't been tested in real combat.
Last month, the U.S. revealed plans for its own sixth-generation fighter, the F-47. A contract went to Boeing, and a prototype has reportedly been flying for five years. However, there’s still no official word on when the F-47 will be ready for use.
While the J-36 gained the spotlight, it isn’t China’s only mystery jet. Around the same time, pictures of another tailless fighter jet appeared online. Experts have started calling this model the J-50 or sometimes the J-XX. This second jet has two engines and also sports a futuristic look.
So far, China hasn’t officially confirmed the existence of the J-36 or the J-50. Still, Chinese military experts quoted in state media hinted that the country is pushing forward with advanced jet programs. Wang Ya’nan, a well-known aviation expert, said these images show China’s strong drive to lead in fighter jet development.
It can take a decade or more for a new aircraft to go from the drawing board to active duty. For example, China first showed its J-35 jet publicly just last year, but work on it started over 10 years ago.
