Image source: topwar.ru
A stand was presented at the Chinese defense Industry exhibition, revealing the declared characteristics of the sixth-generation Chengdu J-36 fighter. According to the information on the stand, the new aircraft has a take-off weight of 50-60 tons, a combat range of more than 4,000 kilometers, a flight range of over 6,000 kilometers and a maximum speed of Mach 2 to 5.2. This data has not been officially confirmed.
The new fighter is expected to enter service with the PLA Air Force in the 2030s. It is a large (about 22 meters in length, more than 50 tons in weight) aircraft with three engines, equipped with stealth technology. Currently, up to five prototypes are involved in flights, with noticeable design changes between them. It is also reported that the J-36 will be equipped with a special laser system designed to protect against incoming enemy missiles.
Image source: topwar.ru
Meanwhile, according to some information, China is actively expanding the Lop-Nur test facility in Xinjiang. Currently, Lop-Nur is being transformed from a relatively modest airfield into a large high-capacity test center designed for promising Chinese aerospace programs. Previously, Lop-Nur was used for testing Chinese sixth-generation J-36 and J-XDS fighters, however, judging by the fact that the new hangars are much wider than standard fighter shelters, it is possible that in the future the facility will be used to service larger aircraft, including the latest stealth bomber H-20. which has not yet been presented to the public.
