Meet J-36, China’s 6th-Generation fighter jet: Capable of dropping heavy bombs, long-range covert strike and…

The leaked pictures showcase a distinctive canopy design and, notably, a side-by-side seating arrangement and three open ventral weapons bays are visible in this fighter plane.

New Delhi: Pictures of the massive ‘J-36’ stealth fighter developed by China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) emerged on Chinese social media, offering a glimpse into its advanced design. Referred to as the JH-XX, the aircraft is believed to be part of a new generation of long-range, strike-capable platforms being tested by the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF).

The leaked pictures showcase a distinctive canopy design and, notably, a side-by-side seating arrangement and three open ventral weapons bays are visible in this fighter plane. It is important to note that despite the visual evidence, the exact role of the J-36 within China’s military doctrine remains unclear. According to some analysts, the J-36 could serve as an air superiority fighter, while others suggest it is intended as a deep-penetration strategic bomber.

Here are some of the key features of J-36 stealth fighter:

• According to the images available online, J-36 stealth fighter is likely to have a side-by-side two-seat cockpit.
• The J-36 appears larger than the J-20, suggesting it’s not just a fighter jet but also capable of acting as a strategic nuclear bomber.
• The picture available on the social media reveals that the outline of the dual canopy and a dorsal air intake designed to feed the aircraft’s central engine.
• Reflections on the cockpit glass suggest large Head-Up Displays (HUDs) in front of both seats.
• China is likely developing the J-36 as a multi-role deep penetration platform, meaning it can drop heavy bombs while operating like a fighter.
• The J-36 is believed to possess very long-range covert strike capability, similar to America’s NGAD platform.

According to the reports, there are three engines present in the aircraft. This is possibly the same model used in the J-20 stealth fighter. The presence of three engines supports the notion of a heavier payload and longer range, essential for strategic strike missions across contested environments.