First flight of Chinese 6th-Generation fighter today
On 26 December 2024, the first flight of China's new 6th-generation fighter took place. The flight, escorted by a smaller dual-seat J-20, occurred in Chengdu, where the J-20, J-10, and J-7 fighters were previously developed and produced.
Reportedly powered by three engines, including a forward lift engine, the new aircraft features a flying wing design with split flaps extending to the wingtips to enhance maneuverability.
Video footage of the two aircraft flying low under a clear blue sky, captured from multiple locations, corroborates reports of this significant milestone.
The available photographs do not clearly reveal the exact placement of the engine configuration on the new aircraft.
Initial indications of China's development of a tailless aircraft surfaced in October 2021, when a full-scale mockup was reported under construction. The design was initiated by the 611th Institute in 2018.
More photos are likely to emerge in the coming days across various media outlets.
Credit photos: still from video