China Unveils J-36: a revolutionary fighter jet on Mao Zedong’s birthday flown on December 26, 2024
As a Christmas gift and to commemorate the birthday of China’s founder, Mao Zedong, the people’s Republic of China indulged in the luxury of presenting its second futuristic military aircraft, the J-36, for the first time on December 26 2024, manufactured by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC).
This presentation of the J-36, coinciding with the 13st anniversary of Mao’s birth, underscores the continuity between China’s revolutionary heritage and its modern military ambitions. The choice of this symbolic date reflects the importance that the current regime still attaches to Mao Zedong’s figure, despite past criticisms.
The unveiling of the J-36 represents a significant advancement in Chinese aerospace capabilities. This next-generation aircraft embodies China’s determination to position itself as a leading military power, capable of rivaling the most advanced Western technologies.
The J-36 is a new Chinese next-generation combat aircraft that recently revealed a unique and innovative configuration. It features a tailless delta-wing flying wing design. Powered by three engines, an unusual configuration, it features a cockpit that suggests an onboard crew, the presence of at least one pilot distinguishing it from a drone. Its length is estimated between 22 and 26 meters with a wingspan of about 20 meters.
Its design is optimized for stealth, with the flying wing shape reducing radar signature and the absence of traditional control surfaces also contributing to stealth. It also features side-mounted caret-type air inlets and a dorsal inlet, with engine exhaust design likely featuring low-signature characteristics.
The J-36’s propulsion is particularly interesting with its three engines, each fed by a dedicated air inlet, with the possibility of thrust vectoring nozzles on the two side engines, suggesting high-speed capabilities and long range.
Although precise details remain speculative, the J-36 appears designed for a stealthy bomber role, comparable to the American B-2 or B-21, with the capacity to carry long-range cruise missiles and potential for long-distance reconnaissance missions.
This aircraft represents a significant advancement in Chinese capabilities, demonstrating their mastery of cutting-edge technologies in military aeronautics.
The presentation of the J-36 on Mao Zedong’s birthday illustrates how modern China seeks to reconcile its revolutionary heritage with its ambitions as a technological and military superpower of the 21st century.
Photos source Internet
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