China’s J-36 and J-50 Stealth Fighters: Key Features and Updates

On December 26, 2024, China surprised global observers by unveiling its next-generation stealth fighter jets, the Chengdu J-36 and the Shenyang J-50. Recent sightings in 2025 have provided new insights into these advanced aircraft.

Here’s what we know about their features, developments, and the unanswered questions surrounding them.

Chengdu J-36: The “Ginkgo Leaf” Fighter

Developed by Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation, the J-36, nicknamed “Ginkgo Leaf” for its shape, is identified by its prototype serial “36011.” Its official name remains undisclosed.

The J-36 features a tailless, diamond-shaped delta wing design that reduces radar visibility and air drag for high-speed cruising. Key features include:

• Trailing edge control surfaces: Five per wing for enhanced control.
• Split ruddervons: Near wingtips to maintain manoeuvrability.
• Trijet engines: Likely WS-series turbofans for speed and range.

A March 2025 test flight confirmed a diverterless supersonic inlet (DSI) and sleek cockpit, boosting its stealth profile.

China’s two next generation stealth fighter jets stunned the world when they seemingly emerged out of nowhere on December 26 last year. Read more: https://t.co/9aQ0Xm3IdB#china #military #scmpnews #scmp pic.twitter.com/ql7cSoIPEV

— South China Morning Post (@SCMPNews) June 10, 2025

Shenyang J-50: The Lambda-Wing Fighter

The Shenyang J-50, manufactured by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, is a twin-engine jet featuring a cranked-arrow lambda wing designed for stealth and efficiency. Its designation is tentative and is sometimes referred to as J-XD.

Notable features include:

• DSI ventral intakes: For stealth and airflow.
• Electro-optical targeting system: Under the nose for precision.
• Weapons bays: Side and main bays for long-range missiles.

WATCH: China’s 6th gen J-36 jet shows off in the sky

Think the US will get the F-47 out before China rolls this out? pic.twitter.com/Rp7XSX5Jyj

— RT (@RT_com) April 20, 2025

April 2025 imagery showed refined wingtip controls and side bays, suggesting multirole capabilities.

Despite new data, gaps remain:

• Roles: J-36 may be a heavy fighter; J-50 could focus on air superiority or naval use.
• Avionics: Details on radar, AI, and sensors are scarce.
• Timeline: Operational capability may range from 2028 to 2035.

The J-36 and J-50 exemplify China’s advancements in aerospace, challenging U.S. air superiority. Their development prompts concerns about global military balances.

China’s J-36 and J-50, unveiled in 2024, mark a leap in stealth technology. With ongoing tests in 2025, they signal China’s bold aviation ambitions. More details are expected as sightings continue.