Chinese experts believe the country’s first sixth-generation stealth fighter jet may have even greater stealth capabilities at hypersonic speeds, with one commenter suggesting the PLA has “fully surpassed global advanced standards”.
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China’s official media appeared to tacitly confirm speculation that a fixed-wing aircraft with a three-engine configuration seen over Chengdu in the southwestern province of Sichuan on Thursday was in fact the stealth fighter on its maiden flight.
During the flight – which took place in broad daylight – the jet was flanked by a fifth-generation J-20 fighter jet, according to footage that was reportedly filmed near the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, a Chinese fighter and drone manufacturer.
Observers noted that the mystery jet – which has a distinctive triangular, tailless design – was flying with its landing gear down – a common practice in the early stages
Chinese authorities have not yet officially confirmed or named the jet, but the Chengdu-based Defence Times appeared to make an oblique reference to the aircraft on its Weibo account.
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The media outlet posted an image of a ginkgo leaf and the comment “it really looks like a leaf”, in what was widely interpreted as a semi-official acknowledgement of the fighter jet.