Beijing is testing its new fighter jet, a sixth-generation jet known as the “White Emperor” (Baidi). The plane took off over Chengdu, China, and the test was immortalized in photos and videos that are now circulating on social media, fueling debate over the aircraft’s capabilities.
New jet unveiled in China: Here is the “White Emperor”
During this first flight, the jet was accompanied by a two-seat Chengdu J-20S fighter jet, and activities were limited to the area near the base of the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) factory. Currently, the features of the White Emperor still remain a mystery, but according to international media, it is the most advanced aircraft ever built by the Beijing military. As if Beijing wants to show off its latest jewel, the images, which can be easily found online, are attracting the attention of experts who are trying to analyze the plane and summarize its key features in the absence of any communication from the Chinese Ministry of Defense. The design reminds you of the Stealth, a plane that can evade radar control. The apparent absence of a ‘tail’ would also favor efficiency at an aerodynamic level in terms of long-range missions, but could – most likely – partially affect maneuverability in a framework characterized by the most modern control systems.
第三圈 pic.twitter.com/GvKReHJ3sm
— 東風 (@eastwind6699) December 26, 2024
Looking at the images, it seems that in terms of dimensions the new creature is comparable to the J-20, whose length exceeds 21 meters. Thanks to the profile of the wings, the ‘size’ suggests a significant amount of potentially portable fuel. This element also reinforces the idea that the new aircraft is particularly suitable for long flights: With a fighter jet with similar characteristics, China would fill a gap in its military air power and have at its disposal a new weapon capable of striking targets and areas hitherto unknown. It is thought to be unreachable from Beijing. While it is thought that at least 3 engines would be needed to support an aircraft of this size, it is unclear whether there is room for one or two pilots inside. According to rumors, the new fighter jet will be able to work with unmanned aerial vehicles, carry hypersonic weapons and have very advanced radar systems.
Source: Today IT
Karen Clayton is a seasoned journalist and author at The Nation Update, with a focus on world news and current events. She has a background in international relations, which gives her a deep understanding of the political, economic and social factors that shape the global landscape. She writes about a wide range of topics, including conflicts, political upheavals, and economic trends, as well as humanitarian crisis and human rights issues.
