A new advanced Chinese fighter jet has left experts baffled and amazed by its new capabilities.
The new stealth aircraft was spotted over China and speculation suggests the country is about to unveil new powerful fighter jets.
Although very little is known about this new aircraft, elements of its design have surprised experts for its design and left them wondering what new technology it could be hiding.
The new aircraft was spotted next to a Chengdu J-20, the current generation of fighter jets – compared to the US Air Force’s F-22.
According to defense news and analysis website The War Zone, the aircraft was spotted during a daytime test flight, alongside the current generation that served as a pursuit aircraft.
The new aircraft was spotted at the top next to a Chengdu J-20, the current generation of fighter jets – compared to the US Air Force’s F-22.
According to defense news and analysis website The War Zone, the plane was spotted during a daytime test flight
The new aircraft, pictured, was spotted next to a Chengdu J-20, the current generation of fighter jets
The aircraft’s tailless design can prevent the aircraft from being detected by radars.
It could also have aerodynamic efficiency that would provide better performance for fast sprints and cruising flights.
It continues: “It is clear that this aircraft incorporates significantly improved low-observable technologies that are leaps and bounds ahead of the J-20, aside from the tailless design.”
The aircraft also appears to be larger than its predecessor, which, according to the website, “seems to reflect an overarching concern with long endurance with a relatively large internal volume that can accommodate a very large fuel load, as well as weapons and sensors.”
The aircraft’s design has also led to some speculation that it could have three engines – something very unorthodox.
This is said to be due to the aircraft’s increased weight, which requires more engines to meet aggressive performance targets – especially for high-speed flight and high-altitude operations.
Now-retired Air Force Gen. Mark D. Kelly had said it would not be a surprise if China had been working on a new generation of fighter jets.
He warned that China “are not dummies.” They know what they’re doing.’
He added that he also expected China’s sixth-generation air combat program to include an “exponential” improvement in stealth compared to current platforms.