The Celestial Empire showed the appearance of a sixth-generation fighter. The aircraft is somewhat different from the concepts demonstrated earlier. At the same time, the novelty echoes Western developments, if we talk about the concept.
The sixth generation fighter concept from Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) was presented at Airshow China 2021. Attention is drawn to the small wingspan and its original design.
Otherwise, the car is similar to the sixth-generation fighter concepts that we could see before. As in the case of European or American developments, the Chinese car has two engines and a cockpit (we must assume that we are facing another "optionally manned" aircraft). Weapons were placed inside the fuselage to ensure low visibility. The detailed characteristics of the novelty are not disclosed.
Sixth generation fighter concept
Image source: Dambiev
Another important event of the exhibition was the first official demonstration of the new generation H-20 strategic bomber. In the future, it may replace the Xian H-6 aircraft, built on the basis of the Soviet Tu-16 and made its first flight back in 1959.
The presentation of the sixth-generation fighter concept was not something unexpected. As mentioned above, many leading countries are currently working in this direction.
Sixth generation fighter concept
Image source: Dambiev
The Europeans decided to "step over" the fifth generation: now they are implementing two competing programs — British-Italian-Swedish and Franco-German-Spanish.
In turn, the United States wants to get cars for the navy and the Air Force: most likely, they will differ significantly.
The most important event in this regard was the testing of the sixth-generation fighter demonstrator, which the US Air Force reported last year. It was about a "full-scale demonstration sample" that "broke many records."
It's too early to judge what all these projects will result in. It is assumed that the sixth generation will be distinguished by increased stealth, efficiency in all modes, "smart" coverage, highly integrated network capabilities, ultra-sensitive sensors and a number of other aspects.
A special place among them is occupied by the use of so-called unmanned wingmen, who will be able to conduct reconnaissance and perform strike functions.
However, they can learn to use them to support fifth-generation fighters. At least, Australia has such ambitions, which together with the United States is implementing the Loyal Wingman project. The prototype of an unmanned slave made its first flight this year.
