China's stealth leap: Testing sixth-gen fighter amid global race
While the USA and Europe are developing concepts for new fighter jets, China is already testing its prototype sixth-generation fighter. Here is what it might feature.
A new, previously unknown aircraft resembling sixth-generation fighters has been spotted in China. Available footage shows it flying alongside the Chinese fifth-generation Chengdu J-20 fighter jet. The details or name of the new aircraft remain unknown. Still, flight tests suggest that the Chinese project may be significantly more advanced than programs in the USA (NGAD) and European countries (Tempest and GCAP), which are currently in the conceptual phase.
The mysterious fighter is said to be the work of Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group (CAIG). Its appearance differs from that of current fighters. It features a delta wing configuration without a vertical stabiliser, which may be related to a desire to reduce aerodynamic drag.
Sixth-generation aircraft — the race for the fighter of the future continues
There is no set of characteristics for sixth-generation machines, but several requirements appear in all ongoing programmes. New aircraft are expected to have advanced electronic warfare capabilities beyond visual range target engagement and the ability to attack ground targets.
Additionally, they are expected to have better aerodynamics. This may require replacing traditional control surfaces that generate unnecessary drag with other solutions supported by artificial intelligence (AI) assisting the pilot.
Optional unmanned capabilities frequently appear, along with the potential use of energy weapons such as lasers, on which the Americans are among those working. These latter points are linked to the necessity of providing a very efficient yet lightweight electrical power generator.
Propaganda stunt or real project?
While Western programmes are still in the design phase and hindered by bureaucracy, the Chinese are taking action. However, it is also possible that this is an early propaganda stunt (a practice quite common in the PRC) intended to demonstrate Beijing's superiority, even though the programme is still in the very early stages of development.
It is worth noting that China is also conducting a strategic bomber programme with the Xi'an H-20, which has been delayed several times, and its completion is still not in sight. Nonetheless, China possesses the technological capabilities, great power ambitions, and resources necessary to undertake such projects.
