We are accustomed to the idea that weapon systems produced by the U.S. and its allies are technically ahead of others. Systems boasted about by other powers are often met with skepticism. The war in Ukraine demonstrated how many of Russia’s “miraculous weapons” turned out to be nothing more than propaganda myths. However, this does not mean that all information about new Russian weapons should be dismissed, especially when it comes to technologies emerging from China. Recently, Beijing revealed it is developing the first ultra-modern sixth-generation aircraft which, with exceptional speed and powerful armaments, will be able to enter space and engage in combat operations there.
The People’s Republic of China is continuously advancing its defense technologies, including next-generation combat aircraft. An example of this is the fifth-generation Chengdu J-20 fighter, which is expected to serve as the backbone of China’s air force for decades to come. According to Chinese sources, thanks to new engines, the J-20 will achieve sustained supersonic flight, known as “supercruise,” which is highly efficient without relying on fuel-consuming afterburners. As is always the case with China – and similarly with Russia – few details about the technical and tactical data and parameters of this aircraft are officially known.
Available sources suggest that the proposed propulsion system will allow the aircraft to reach speeds of 2,100 km/h (approximately 1.9 Mach) at high altitudes. Meanwhile, its cruising speed during combat missions is expected to be 3,400 km/h, though this is without additional fuel tanks. The aircraft’s service ceiling is around 18 kilometers.
Chiński supersamolot VI generacji. fot AVIC
According to available information, each J-20 costs between $70 million and $110 million. China has reportedly built 150 of these aircraft. However, Western experts assert that the Chinese design still falls short of the U.S. fifth-generation fighters, such as the F-35 and F-22.
It is also noted that the “invisible” J-20 was built using stolen secret designs of the American F-35. The aircraft is said to bear a striking resemblance to the F-35 Lightning II. Nevertheless, it remains a fact that China, after the U.S., is the second country to officially possess domestically produced stealth aircraft.
The true super jet, however, is expected to be the sixth-generation fighter named Baidi (White Emperor), unveiled in late November 2024 during the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai. This aircraft is China’s response to the growing demands of modern battlefields and the need to balance power in the region and globally. As is now the basic requirement for modern aviation technology, the aircraft features advanced stealth technologies to minimize its radar, thermal, and acoustic signatures, making it difficult to detect by enemy defense systems. The aircraft is also equipped with advanced sensors and navigation systems, including modern AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radars, optoelectronic sensors, and navigation systems that ensure high precision and situational awareness in all conditions.
The use of lightweight and durable composite materials in the aircraft’s construction is designed to improve its fuel efficiency and maneuverability. Thanks to these modern materials and designs, the aircraft is incredibly agile and capable of performing complex combat maneuvers. Another critical requirement for modern technology is artificial intelligence. The Chinese intend to integrate AI systems to support the pilot in decision-making, data analysis, and onboard system management.
The aircraft is also expected to feature advanced weapon systems, including the ability to carry state-of-the-art air-to-air, air-to-ground missiles, and laser weaponry, significantly enhancing its combat effectiveness. This fighter is expected to be used for air defense missions, primarily intercepting and destroying enemy aircraft and missiles, as well as supporting ground operations by attacking strategic targets or aiding ground forces. The aircraft will also gather intelligence, performing reconnaissance and monitoring enemy positions and infrastructure.
What sets this aircraft apart, making it unique among all previously produced, is its capability to support operations in space, such as intercepting satellites. The ability to operate in space would be one of the undeniable advantages of the Chinese sixth-generation aircraft, potentially giving it an edge over American fighters like the F-16, F-22, and F-35. Conducting missions in space allows for operations over long distances and in hard-to-reach areas, giving it an advantage in reconnaissance missions and strikes on distant targets.
Notably, the aircraft will be equipped with advanced sensor systems capable of collecting data from space, enabling the monitoring and analysis of situations over vast distances, which is challenging for traditional aircraft. Operating in space, the aircraft could also utilize advanced weapon systems such as cruise missiles and laser weapons, which are more effective in the space environment.
The aircraft will also have advanced navigation systems allowing precise maneuvering in space, enabling quick and effective responses to changing situations. Operating in space, the sixth-generation aircraft could carry out large-scale and high-frequency missions, increasing its combat effectiveness.
In summary, the ability to operate in space provides the Chinese sixth-generation aircraft with advantages in range, maneuverability, intelligence capabilities, and weapon effectiveness. This allows it to undertake missions beyond the reach of traditional aircraft like the F-16, F-22, and F-35.
Of course, building such an aircraft comes with high production and maintenance costs for such advanced technologies. This would require sophisticated technical support and highly trained personnel.
Doubts have already emerged about whether this aircraft even exists, with speculation that China may have showcased only a model of a future plane they aspire to build for propaganda purposes. In reality, it may be nothing more than a flight simulator designed for children’s virtual play.
Even if the fighter’s unveiling was merely a propaganda move intended to present China as a leader in military aviation, one thing seems certain. According to experts, no challenges will deter Chinese aircraft manufacturers from planning the further development of sixth-generation technology, including the integration of even more advanced artificial intelligence systems and energy weapons. Beijing has stated that the goal is to introduce the super jet into service in the early 2030s to quickly provide China with an advantage on the modern battlefield.
How will other Western countries respond to this technological challenge? The United States has already presented its concept for a sixth-generation aircraft, intended to replace the multi-role F/A-18E/F Super Hornets. It has been announced that the F/A-XX program aircraft is expected to enter service after 2030.
