Latest news with #ChengduJ-36
The Star
12-06-2025
- The Star
What do we know so far about China's advanced J-36 and J-50 fighter jets?
China's two next generation stealth fighter jets – known as the Chengdu J-36 and the Shenyang J-50 – stunned the world when they seemingly emerged out of nowhere on December 26 last year. Over the past six months, more sightings and the resulting images and witness reports have given us an increasing amount of detail about the two advanced and yet mysterious aircraft. Here is what we know about them so far – as well as some of what we do not. Chengdu J-36 Also nicknamed the 'Gingko leaf' because of its shape, the name of this aircraft, developed by the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAIC), has never been officially disclosed. It is known as the J-36 because of the serial number '36011' that was painted on the prototype jet in the first images – similar to the initial J-20, which bore the number '2001'. The J-36's distinctive diamond shape derives from its delta wing platform design, which could greatly reduce air drag when the plane is cruising at high speed. The aircraft is also distinctively tailless – essential for radar evasion. Other unique aerodynamic features include trailing edge control surfaces per wing and split flaps close to the wingtips. These configurations further streamline the airframe while making up for the loss of manoeuvrability. The J-36 is powered by an unorthodox three engines, which are believed to be the same WS-10C Taihang that is used in the J-20. They could also be upgraded to the WS-10 thrust-vectoring version or the more advanced and powerful WS-15 Emei. The engines also use different inlets, with the one on the dorsal featuring a diverterless supersonic inlet (DSI) air intake with a compression bump. The two ventral engines use Caret inlets that have adjustable ramps to ensure high-speed performance. The trio of engine exhausts is arranged in a petal design – similar to the United States' experimental YF-23 aircraft in the 1980s – which is said to provide better management of airflow temperature while reducing infrared observability. Most of the J-36's unusual design features are aimed at improving stealth, suggesting the aircraft has also been equipped with a considerable capability upgrade against radar and electro-optic detection in all directions compared to fifth-generation fighters. In its first appearance, the J-36 was accompanied by a J-20S chase plane, providing clues about its size. Based on the images from that day, the aircraft is at least as long as the 21-metre (65.6 feet) J-20, if not slightly longer, but almost double its 3-metre (9.84 feet) wingspan. The estimated size of the J-36 serves as a baseline for conjecture about its other specifications, such as its empty weight, take-off weight, speed, fuel capacity, combat range, armament capacity, and so on. The only thing we can say for sure is that this plane is significantly larger than the heavyweight fifth-gen J-20 fighter, which would allow abundant space for more armaments as well as radar and other advanced avionics. This has led to some speculation about whether the J-36 is more of a bomber. For the sake of its stealth profile, the aircraft's weapon bays are hidden, with one popular theory suggesting that its firepower could greatly exceed the J-20. According to this theory, the J-36 has one main bay in the fuselage belly that can carry up to six or eight long-range missiles, as well as two side bays, each capable of holding two smaller missiles. Another guess is that the J-36's cockpit might be twin-seated with a side-by-side seat arrangement. This has not been confirmed by clearer images, but if true, could be intended for better drone control. Shenyang J-50 There have been fewer close-up eyewitness reports about the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC) fighter compared to its Chengdu counterpart. As another tailless stealth fighter, the smaller J-50 has a number of similar aerodynamic features, including movable wingtip control surfaces to enhance stability and manoeuvrability. The J-50 has a lambda wing platform design – a shape that has been compared to a brown needletail, a large swift that gets its name from the spined ends of its tail – a conventional structure in stealth fighters that stabilises flight while reducing the radar cross-section. It is powered by two engines – possibly thrust-vectoring WS-10B/C types that would provide stronger manoeuvrability – with sophisticated DSI inlets to increase the aircraft's stealth. The J-50's size can also be estimated, thanks to its appearance alongside a J-16 in the available images. These show that it is almost the same length as a J-16 but with a wider wingspan. Because it is not as big as the J-36, there has been speculation that the J-50 could be fitted for aircraft carriers. Two symmetrical weapon bays under the fuselage are believed to be large enough for the PL-17, China's most powerful long-range air-to-air missile. Neither the Chinese military nor the two developers CAIC and SAC have made any remarks about the two aircraft, so the timetable for their development and expected service time – as well as how many are planned – is absolutely unknown. - SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST
New Indian Express
01-06-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
India's fifth generation AMCA needs mission mode to meet deadlines
Over a year after the Cabinet Committee on Security gave its nod for India's first 5th-generation fighter aircraft, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), the Defence Ministry on May 27 cleared the way for the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research & Development Organisation as the nodal agency to commence work on the design and development of its execution model. The development is welcome, although it's a case of better late than never, considering that India's not-so-friendly neighbourhood already has 5th-generation fighter aircraft among its squadrons. China reportedly has an operational fleet of 180 5th-generation fighter jets, and, according to unconfirmed reports, it unveiled its 6th-generation fighter, the Chengdu J-36, in January. Its all-weather ally Pakistan is said to be procuring 40 more of their 5th-gen fighters. AMCA's first of the five planned prototypes is expected to be unveiled in three years, and its maiden flight is likely to take off no earlier than 2028. Its operational roll-out can be expected only by 2035. The initial prototypes may cost approximately ₹1,720 crore each, but this could be reduced to ₹860 crore when production scales up. The overall project has been allocated ₹15,000 crore. This presents a time span with possible cost escalations, during which equations about air power balance with neighbours may likely turn to India's disadvantage. This must be viewed against the backdrop of the Indian Air Force already being stretched thin, with the squadron strength down to 31 against the authorised 42.
Sustainability Times
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Sustainability Times
Stunning Chinese Breakthrough: New Tailless Fighter Jet Astonishes the World and Challenges U.S. Grip on Global Air Supremacy
IN A NUTSHELL ✈️ The Chengdu J-36 is a revolutionary tailless fighter jet developed by China, reducing aerodynamic drag and enhancing performance. and enhancing performance. 🔍 Advanced stealth technology makes the jet nearly invisible to modern detection systems, providing a strategic advantage. makes the jet nearly invisible to modern detection systems, providing a strategic advantage. ⚡ Equipped with a next-generation engine, the jet combines power and efficiency , achieving high speeds with optimized fuel consumption. , achieving high speeds with optimized fuel consumption. 🌍 This innovation could shift the geopolitical balance, prompting other nations to rethink their military strategies and investments. The rise of China in the sphere of military technology has captured global attention. Among its latest innovations is a new generation tailless fighter jet that stands out not only due to its advanced technological features but also its potential strategic implications. As major world powers strive to bolster their military arsenals, China seems to have made a significant leap forward. This article delves into the specifics of this new jet, its unique features, and what it signifies for the future of military aviation. Tailless Design: A Revolutionary Innovation The Chengdu J-36 is a versatile fighter developed by China to meet modern military aviation needs. Combining performance and advanced technology, this aircraft marks a significant step in the evolution of Chinese military aviation. The most remarkable feature of this fighter jet is its lack of a tail. This innovation is not merely for aesthetics; it holds major implications for the aircraft's performance. By eliminating the tail, Chinese engineers have managed to reduce aerodynamic drag, thereby enhancing the aircraft's efficiency and speed. This could enable it to surpass the maximum speeds achieved by conventional fighters. Furthermore, the absence of a tail simplifies the aircraft's structure, potentially reducing production and maintenance costs. The savings could then be reinvested in other critical areas such as weaponry or detection systems. However, this design also presents challenges, particularly regarding stability and control, which must be overcome using advanced technologies such as fly-by-wire control systems. This innovation might inspire new approaches in military aircraft design worldwide, prompting other nations to rethink their military aviation strategies. Ultimately, the tailless design could become the standard for future fighter jets, marking a departure from traditional designs. '95% Quieter Than Concorde': This groundbreaking Chinese supersonic jet promises to redefine air travel with 50% more range and unprecedented silence Stealth Technology: A Step Toward Invisibility Stealth is a crucial aspect of military aviation, and this Chinese fighter jet is no exception. By incorporating cutting-edge technologies, this new aircraft aims to minimize its radar signature. This makes it virtually invisible to enemy defense systems, providing an undeniable strategic advantage. The materials used in the construction of this jet play an essential role in its ability to evade radar detection. Advanced composites and special coatings are employed to absorb radar signals, thereby minimizing detection. Additionally, the aircraft's shape is designed to diffuse radar waves, preventing them from returning to the emitter. This stealth technology is not limited to radar; efforts are also made to reduce the thermal and acoustic signature of the jet, making it difficult to detect even by infrared and sonar systems. The integration of these stealth technologies could represent a turning point in modern warfare, where the ability to avoid detection often equates to survival and success. 'The power of a thousand suns': America perfects nuclear reactors' gas injection to withstand this massive solar-like force Performance and Combat Capabilities The Chengdu J-36 is a Chinese multirole fighter designed to ensure air superiority and ground attack missions. With its exceptional performance and advanced technology, it represents a significant advancement in modern military aviation. Beyond its innovative design, this fighter jet also excels in terms of performance. It is designed to achieve high speeds, with the capability to reach impressive altitudes while maintaining exceptional agility. These characteristics make it a formidable adversary on the battlefield. A portion of these performances can be attributed to its next-generation engine, which combines power and efficiency. This engine allows the jet to maintain high speeds over long distances while optimizing fuel consumption. This combination is essential for military operations, where endurance and speed can mean the difference between success and failure. In terms of armament, the jet is equipped with the latest missile and defense system technologies. These systems are integrated to maximize efficiency while minimizing payload, allowing the jet to maintain its speed and agility. This ability to combine speed, power, and agility makes it particularly suitable for air superiority missions. China's breakthrough in plasma technology – This seismic shift in physics could change energy forever Strategic Implications for China and the World The development of this fighter jet represents a significant milestone for China on the global stage. By demonstrating its ability to design and produce such an aircraft, China sends a strong message to potential adversaries. This new jet could alter the balance of military forces in key regions, notably in the Asia-Pacific. For other major powers, this technological advancement could raise concerns about the need to modernize their own air forces. The arms race could intensify, with increased investments in research and development to rival China's emerging capabilities. From a geopolitical perspective, this jet could enhance China's position in international negotiations, providing an additional leverage point in defense and security discussions. For potential allies, this advancement could also represent an opportunity for collaboration, while for adversaries, it might be perceived as a growing threat. The innovation in Chinese fighter aviation could have a considerable impact on the global aerospace industry. Will other nations rise to the challenge and innovate to maintain their standing on the international stage? Did you like it? 4.5/5 (27)
