China’s J-20 Stealth Fighter Jet

December 27, 2024

Recent social media activity has showcased new Chinese combat aircraft, reflecting advancements in aerospace technology, coincide with notable anniversaries, including the J-20 stealth fighter’s rollout and Mao Zedong’s birthday.

New Aircraft Specifications

One of the newly revealed aircraft features a large, three-engine design. It has a unique cockpit and diamond-shaped wings without vertical tails. The aircraft employs split rudders for yaw control, reminiscent of the Northrop Grumman B-2. Its engines include a top inlet for enhanced stealth and two bottom inlets shaped like caret symbols, which are less stealthy. The aircraft’s size suggests the presence of an internal weapons bay.

Test Flight Observations

The aircraft was captured during a test flight over a populated area in China. It was accompanied by a Chengdu-made J-20S fighter, indicating a potential chase mission. Experts speculate that this aircraft may be the anticipated J/H-XX “regional bomber,” intended for high-altitude precision strikes, or part of China’s sixth-generation fighter initiative.

Additional Aircraft Designs

Further social media posts revealed a second warplane with a more conventional fighter design. This aircraft features cranked arrow wings and possibly folding tailfins. The images were timestamped December 22, 2024, though the exact timing of the photos remains uncertain.

The unveiling of these new warplanes coincides with dates in Chinese aviation history. The announcements occurred on the 13th anniversary of the J-20’s rollout and Mao Zedong’s 131st birthday. While the Chinese government has not officially acknowledged these aircraft, the lack of effort to remove the images from social media suggests a level of acceptance.

China continues to advance its military aviation capabilities. The country is developing the H-20 long-range stealth bomber and the JH-XX fighter-bomber. Reports confirm that a sixth-generation fighter is also in the works, indicating a robust commitment to modernising its air force.

GKToday Notes:
J-20: The J-20 is China’s first stealth fighter. It was officially rolled out on December 26, 2016. The aircraft features advanced stealth technology and is designed for air superiority missions
H-20: The H-20 is a long-range stealth bomber under development in China. It aims to enhance China’s strategic bombing capabilities. The aircraft is expected to feature advanced stealth and precision strike technologies.
Northrop Grumman B-2: The B-2 Spirit is a stealth bomber used by the United States Air Force. It features a flying wing design. The aircraft is designed for penetrating dense anti-aircraft defenses.

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