China showcases new J-50 fighter jet: Its probable characteristics revealed
Photo: China unveils new J-50 fighter jet (Getty Images)
China recently showcased the public flight of its new fighter jet, previously known as the J-36. Its official designation is now J-50, Defense Express informs.
As noted by Defense Express, alongside its official name, J-50, some characteristics of the new fighter jet have been revealed. However, these are not official specifications, as the aircraft is still at the prototype stage. If these data are accurate, the Chinese J-50 appears to be a formidable opponent.
According to the information, the twin-engine aircraft measures 22 meters in length with a lambda-shaped wingspan and a wing area of 145 square meters. Its maximum takeoff weight is 40 tons, and it can achieve a top speed of Mach 2. The combat radius of the J-50 is approximately 2,200 km.
The J-50 is believed to feature several weapon bays, including a primary bay capable of holding four new Chinese PL-17 air-to-air missiles, which were introduced into the Chinese Air Force in 2022. These missiles are 6 meters long and have a flight range of 300 km, although some sources claim up to 500 km.
The main bay could also accommodate one YJ-12 anti-ship missile, which reaches speeds of up to Mach 3 and has a range of 400 km. This missile is substantial in size, measuring 6.3 meters in length with a diameter of over 0.4 meters.
Additional bays could house four more PL-17 missiles or their Chinese counterparts to the AIM-120, the PL-15.
Other capabilities of the aircraft, including its electronic warfare systems, remain undisclosed at this time.
China recently conducted a flight of another next-generation fighter jet. The aircraft, initially referred to as the J-36, has now been officially named the J-50.
RBC-Ukraine also reported that, according to Pentagon data, China has significantly accelerated the modernization of its armed forces and is expanding its nuclear arsenal.
