Chengdu J-36 "6th Gen" Aircraft - News and Analysis

[Deino]

Now that both the J-36 and the J-XDS have been undergoing testing for a good two years and there are several prototypes, it is time to split the collection theme and start a separate one for each type.

Back in the air today, with some interesting details on the rear of the fuselage and the top of the central air intake:

 

[Deino]

The most beautiful plane since the SR-71

Although the ‘thing’ faces stiff competition from the J-XDS!

 

[pagliacci]

Saw a nice‑looking new test‑flight video of the J‑36, only to find out the forum won’t let me upload videos lol.

 

[Deino]

Obviously one of the best video recordings of the J-36 so far seen during landing approach ... But can anyone read the number under the cockpit?

https://twitter.com/x/status/2102439610542682200

View: https://twitter.com/chaoyinsukandao/status/2102439610542682200

 

[helmutkohl]

^its pretty pixelated but looks like 3606?

 

[snne]

Seems to be "36011"

 

[Sferrin]

Although the ‘thing’ faces stiff competition from the J-XDS!

That one is definitely a contender.

 

[Deino]

Seems to be "36011"

I don’t like it, but I need to agree

 

[Avimimus]

I don’t like it, but I need to agree

How does this compare to the J-20 timeline? A little bit further along than expected, right?

 

[Nx4eu]

How does this compare to the J-20 timeline? A little bit further along than expected, right?

I wouldn't be surprised if LRIP and service birds came before 2030, the pace is quite thunderous.

 

[snne]

How does this compare to the J-20 timeline? A little bit further along than expected, right?

While a tiny bit dated, this is overall a pretty decent take:

 

[Avimimus]

Thanks! That is what I thought. I'll avoid speculating further about what this means for timelines, as it is the wrong thread for that! But it is good to have the factual point of comparison.

 

[Forest Green]

China’s Recent J-36 Heavy Stealth Tactical Jet Testing Offers New Insights Into Its Evolving Design​

Recent video footage of the J-36 undergoing flight testing shows continued refinement of its design and new features.

https://www.twz.com/air/chinas-rece...-offers-new-insights-into-its-evolving-design

 

[siegecrossbow]

How does this compare to the J-20 timeline? A little bit further along than expected, right?

I’m not sure the two are completely comparable since the proportion of new tech on J-36 is much higher. That said, there is reliable news that they can LRIP before 2030.