A new image purportedly showing China’s next-generation stealth aircraft, the J-36, has surfaced online.
The photo appears to be a screenshot of a computer display showing the jet parked on the ground, possibly at a Chengdu Aircraft Corporation facility, where the aircraft has been observed flying previously.
📸 A head-on look at China’s sixth-generation stealth fighter, the J-36. pic.twitter.com/NhF45lKJIW
— Clash Report (@clashreport) June 6, 2025
One of the clearest details visible is the aircraft’s cockpit, which seems to feature two seats side-by-side, a rare layout for a fighter jet, more typical of bombers or strike aircraft such as the U.S. F-111 or Russia’s Su-34.
The image also reveals three open weapons bays which would allow the J-36 to carry a diverse arsenal, from small missiles to large cruise missiles, without relying on external pylons that could compromise stealth.
Additionally, the aircraft seems to have three air intakes, two beneath and one above, suggesting a three-engine design. This is unusual, as most modern fighters use two engines.
According to analysts from Interesting Engineering, a triple-engine setup could offer greater power and range but would also lead to increased weight, higher fuel consumption, and more complex maintenance.
Chinese media estimate the J-36 to be roughly 75 feet long and weigh between 99,200 and 119,000 pounds—significantly larger and heavier than the J-20, which weighs up to around 82,000 pounds.
Chengdu is believed to be the developer of the J-36, with the aircraft spotted flying from the facility multiple times over the past six months.
Three more images showing the J-36 during its second flight. pic.twitter.com/B5nAmiyPlg
— @Rupprecht_A (@RupprechtDeino) March 17, 2025
