Chinas Tailless Next Gen Fighter: What we know so far [Video]

China’s Chengdu J-36 is an ambitious next-generation stealth fighter that has quickly become a focal point for military aviation enthusiasts and analysts. Its most striking feature is its tailless, trijet design, coupled with a sleek delta-wing configuration, which enhances its stealth profile and maneuverability. The aircraft is believed to incorporate advanced technologies aimed at achieving sixth-generation capabilities, including enhanced network-centric warfare systems, advanced artificial intelligence integration, and next-level sensor fusion.

Spotted during test flights over Chengdu in China’s Sichuan province, the J-36’s futuristic design represents a bold departure from traditional fighter configurations. The absence of a vertical stabilizer—a hallmark of most previous stealth aircraft—further reduces radar cross-section, making it even harder to detect. This innovative design aligns with China’s broader strategy of developing cutting-edge military platforms to rival Western aviation technologies, particularly the U.S. NGAD program and Europe’s FCAS.