Second prototype of China’s J-36 fighter shows advancements in design and maneuverability

English Posted on  —by Nicolle
Second prototype of the Chinese J-36 fighter shows advances in design and maneuverability
Second prototype of the Chinese J-36 fighter shows advances in design and maneuverability (X @Rational314159)

China has revealed the second prototype of the sixth-generation heavy fighter J-36, featuring significant changes compared to the first model, which made its first test flights in December 2024.

Released images show that the program is still under active development, with changes indicating a focus on enhanced performance and stealth.

The new prototype features three angled exhaust nozzles, similar to the F-22’s thrust vectoring systems, which may improve maneuverability and stability at high speeds and altitudes. The air intakes have been redesigned with curved lower edges that face forward, while the landing gear now adopts a parallel wheel arrangement, saving space and simplifying the structure.

Engineers are continuing to test different solutions to optimize the balance between control, stability, and the aircraft’s stealth characteristics. These changes suggest that the J-36 is still in an intense experimental phase, aiming to combine technological innovation with operational efficiency.

Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @Rational314159 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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