China Unveils Hints of Next-Generation Fighter Jet in PLA Video
China's Military Teases New Fighter Jet
In a recent promotional video released by the People's Liberation Army (PLA), China's military has provided a glimpse of what is believed to be the J-36, a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet. The video, which celebrates the Y-20 military transport aircraft, features a conversation between two PLA pilots discussing refueling operations for the H-6 bomber, during which one pilot casually refers to the new aircraft as "Xiao Liu" (Little Six). Shortly after, a fast-moving aircraft with a distinctive tailless, diamond-shaped wing design is seen outside the cockpit, leading defense analysts to interpret this as the PLA's first public acknowledgment of its sixth-generation fighter program.
Previously, information about the J-36 had only emerged through unverified social media posts, including footage that appeared to show a test flight in late 2025, raising questions about China's advancements in military aviation.
PLA just hinted at the 6th-gen fighter in the video Y-20's 10th anniversary service!"Captain, who are we refueling today?""First 'Sixth Master' (H-6), then 'Little Six' (6th-gen)."The final shot clearly shows the unannounced but well-known 6th-gen jet. pic.twitter.com/dmVdErtXmO
— Li Zexin 李泽欣 (@XH_Lee23) June 28, 2026
While China's Defense Ministry has yet to officially confirm the aircraft's identity, the J-36 is thought to be one of two prototypes in development. Analysts suggest that the larger J-36, linked to AVIC Chengdu, is designed for stealth with its tailless diamond-wing structure. In contrast, a smaller prototype, informally referred to as the J-50 and associated with AVIC Shenyang, features a design reminiscent of the Greek letter lambda.
Compared to existing fifth-generation fighters like the US F-35 and China's J-20, sixth-generation jets are anticipated to offer superior stealth, extended operational ranges, advanced engines, and capabilities to work alongside autonomous combat drones. As China progresses, other nations are also advancing their next-generation fighter initiatives. The US Air Force aims to introduce its F-47 by 2028, while the Navy is developing the F/A-XX carrier-based fighter. In Europe, despite challenges, the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) seeks to produce a sixth-generation fighter by 2035.
The PLA's recent video has sparked renewed global interest in China's military aviation goals, prompting analysts to scrutinize every detail for insights into the nation's future air combat technologies.