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yesterday

China Pushes Fighter Leap With J-20S Two-Seater and Reported Sixth-Gen Flight Tests

A U.S. assessment says the land-based J-36 and carrier-focused J-50 have entered flight testing, pointing to a shift toward networked, AI-driven air combat in the next decade.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, flown by Capt. Samuel “Razz” Larson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team pilot, deploys flares over the Gulf of Mexico during the 2024 Gulf Coast Salute Air Show at Panama City Beach, Florida, May 4. The F-22’s unique combination of stealth, speed, agility and situational awareness, combined with lethal long-range air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry, makes it one of the most advanced fighters in the world. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stefan Alvarez)
China sixth-generation fighter jet.

Overview

  • China publicly displayed and officially declassified the two-seat J-20S, which state sources describe as adding a dedicated mission commander to manage sensors and direct drones.
  • Open-source imagery reported in 2025 indicates the J-20S is moving toward operational service with frontline PLAAF markings observed on at least one aircraft.
  • A December 2025 U.S. report states China’s sixth-generation J-36 and J-50 programs have progressed into active flight testing with potential mid-2030s operational timelines.
  • Analysts describe the J-36 as a tailless, long-range air-superiority design expected to integrate AI and act as a command node for manned–unmanned teaming.
  • The J-50 is reported as a carrier-optimized concept with structural reinforcements and possible folding wings, aligning with China’s expanding carrier fleet and a J-20 inventory estimated at roughly 300 jets.