DefenseSecond prototype of the Chinese stealth fighter J-36 spotted in flight with updates
The second prototype of China’s tri-engine J-36 fighter was spotted about 10 months after the presentation of the first stealth aircraft, with images shared this week on local social media.
The photos reveal significant changes, including the adoption of diverterless supersonic inlets (DSI) and a revised configuration of the main landing gear.
The aircraft now features two side-by-side wheels, replacing the tandem arrangement seen on the initial prototype, which freed up more space for the weapons compartment.
The engine exits have also been modified and now appear to be movable, indicating a focus on maneuverability at the expense of certain stealth characteristics.
The J-36 is one of China’s 6th generation aircraft, which has been evaluating several prototypes. The evolution seen in the second aircraft may indicate that Chengdu, its manufacturer, is close to the final production design.
The manufacturer has not yet officially confirmed which engines are equipping the prototype, which remains one of the main unknowns of the program.
Even the mission profile of the J-36 remains uncertain, as the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has yet to acknowledge the existence of the tri-jet.
The most likely alternative is that it will perform deep strike missions as it appears to have a long range and be crewed by two occupants.
Via @Rupprecht_A
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