J-36 and J-50 Continue Test Flights: China and the U.S. Race Toward Sixth-Generation Fighter Jets

The competition for sixth-generation air superiority intensifies as China continues testing two new prototype fighters—the J-36 and J-50—both spotted in multiple test flights in recent weeks.

These advanced aircraft are speculated to be the next leap in China’s stealth fighter technology, potentially rivaling future U.S. models like the F-47, recently teased by former President Donald Trump.

J-36: Delta-Wing Agility in Action

Developed by Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAIC), the J-36 stands out with its high maneuverability. A video recorded on April 7 shows the aircraft flying at low altitude over a highway, seemingly preparing for landing.

Key visual features include a compact cockpit, a top-mounted air intake, and three engine exhausts.

Experts note that the J-36’s unique delta wing structure, split flaps, and advanced flight control system grant it “supermaneuverability.” Small control surfaces add significantly to its agility, and when paired with thrust-vectoring engines, the aircraft’s dogfighting prowess is dramatically enhanced.

More recent footage has reaffirmed these capabilities, showing tight aerial turns and rapid vertical climbs.

J-50: Shenyang’s Stealth Beast

 Meanwhile, the J-50, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC), was captured in high-quality images during test flights in China’s Liaoning province on April 4 and 8. First seen in a grainy video back in December, the aircraft now reveals more of its sleek features.

According to U.S.-based defense outlet The War Zone, the J-50 sports a lambda-wing configuration and articulated wing tips. It is believed to share internal weapon bay designs with the F-22 and J-20, maximizing stealth. Another standout design element is the DSI (diverterless supersonic inlet) air intake, seamlessly integrated into the aircraft’s nose with trapezoidal geometry.

Common Traits: Tail-less Design, Radar Evasion

Both aircraft share a tail-less design philosophy, prioritizing minimal radar signature—a key requirement for sixth-generation fighter jets. Although Chinese authorities have yet to officially confirm technical specs or codenames, analysts say the J-36 and J-50 align closely with sixth-gen benchmarks: superior stealth, agility, sensor fusion, and AI-assisted controls.

The prototypes were first spotted on December 26 and have since appeared frequently across Chinese social media platforms. Public excitement and international speculation are at an all-time high as China showcases its rapid military advancements.

America’s Answer: The F-47

On the other side of the Pacific, the United States is gearing up with its own response. Former President Donald Trump, in a March 21 address, announced that Boeing has been developing the F-47 fighter jet in secret for the past five years. While few technical details are available, the F-47 is expected to be a cornerstone of the U.S. Air Force’s future fleet.

The F-47 will likely incorporate next-gen features including adaptive engines, laser weapons, and advanced networking capabilities—technologies intended to ensure U.S. air dominance in contested environments.

While we await official confirmation from Chinese defense ministries, the flight test frequency and detailed sightings suggest both the J-36 and J-50 are entering advanced stages of development.

The international defense community is watching closely, as this new arms race in aerial warfare could reshape military doctrines and geopolitical power dynamics for decades to come.

As the sixth-generation fighter era dawns, the skies are becoming more contested than ever.

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Source: ankarahaberler.com