China surpasses rivals with ‘world-class’ sixth-gen stealth fighter jet: experts

Mystery aircraft with cutting-edge design marks historic milestone for the country’s military capabilities, observers said

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Images of the mystery aircraft with its distinctive appearance began circulating on Chinese social media platforms on Thursday. Photo: Weibo/师伟微博

Sylvie Zhuangin BeijingandSeong Hyeon Choiin Hong Kong

Published: 4:21pm, 27 Dec 2024Updated: 9:33pm, 27 Dec 2024

Chinese experts believe the country’s first sixth-generation stealth fighter jet may have even greater stealth capabilities at hypersonic speeds, with one commenter suggesting the PLA has “fully surpassed global advanced standards”.

China’s official media appeared to tacitly confirm speculation that a fixed-wing aircraft with a three-engine configuration seen over Chengdu in the southwestern province of Sichuan on Thursday was in fact the stealth fighter on its maiden flight.

During the flight – which took place in broad daylight – the jet was flanked by a fifth-generation J-20 fighter jet, according to footage that was reportedly filmed near the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, which makes fighters and drones.

Observers noted that the mystery jet – which has a distinctive triangular, tailless design – was flying with its landing gear down – a common practice in the early stages of testing.

Chinese authorities have not yet officially confirmed the jet’s existence or given it a name, but the Chengdu-based Defence Times appeared to make an oblique reference to the aircraft on its Weibo account.

The media outlet posted an image of a ginkgo leaf and the comment “it really looks like a leaf”, in what was widely interpreted as a semi-official acknowledgement.