
The cleft-type rudder of the Chengdu Aviation Corporation's sixth-generation aircraft has no gap with the fuselage, and this is quite an impressive progress.
Recently, the video and images of the latest test flight of Chengfei's sixth-generation fighter circulating on social media have attracted global attention. The new images clearly display the unique three-engine exhaust design of the J-36, with its "split rudder" structure extending above the top of the engine nozzles, resembling Northrop YF-23's stealth exhaust layout. This design not only highlights J-36's extreme pursuit of stealth performance but also implies a significant breakthrough in China's sixth-generation aircraft technology. Combined with the possible side-by-side double-seater cockpit and tailless flying wing configuration of J-36, its formidable performance in stealth and combat capabilities is highly anticipated.
According to Foreign Media "The War Zone" analysis, the exhaust pipes are embedded into the grooves on the inner sides of the aircraft's trailing edge, with the top extending outward in a structure resembling "petals," rising above the nozzle tops, forming a "split rudder" feature. This aims to minimize radar and infrared signatures by dispersing jet exhaust gases, actively cooling the upper deck area, and limiting the line-of-sight exposure of the engine exhaust. Additionally, the absence of gaps between the split rudders and the fuselage is crucial for enhancing stealth performance.
Specifically, the low-observable design of J-36's exhaust pipes embedded in the upper trailing edge effectively reduces the radar cross-section (RCS), achieving all-around stealth. The tailless flying wing configuration further eliminates traditional tail radar reflection points, complemented by the next-generation stealth coating, making J-36's stealth performance believed to far exceed the fifth-generation J-20 fighter jets, and may even approach an "exponential improvement." This design not only enhances penetration capability but also provides security for J-36's survival in high-threat airspace, particularly suitable for precise strikes against high-value targets within island chains.
Although the three-engine layout increases design complexity, the integrated exhaust system and "split rudder" design enable J-36 to successfully balance power and stealth requirements. Compared to traditional twin-engine fighters, J-36's operational radius is reportedly up to 3000 kilometers, covering strategic targets such as Guam, increasing by 50% compared to J-20. This design not only strengthens long-range combat capabilities but also reserves power space for future integration of high-energy-consuming weapons (such as laser defense systems).
The cockpit design of J-36 has also sparked heated discussions. The new video provides a new perspective on the cockpit, and aviation observer Andreas Ruprecht pointed out that two head-up displays may be visible in the image, suggesting that J-36 adopts a side-by-side double-seater layout. Compared to the tandem double-seater, the side-by-side layout can save fuselage space, reduce redundant equipment, and facilitate pilot collaboration, especially suitable for long-duration ground/sea strike missions. A similar layout is common in US-made F-111 and Russian-made Su-34 fighters, indicating that J-36 may be tasked with dual missions of air combat and precision strikes.
The side-by-side double-seater design may also support J-36's collaborative operations with drones. One of the core features of sixth-generation fighters is their connectivity in information warfare environments. J-36 may significantly enhance battlefield awareness and strike efficiency through intelligent auxiliary technologies and drone collaboration. This multi-purpose design enables it not only to perform air combat missions but also to assume the role of a stealth bomber, greatly expanding operational flexibility.
J-36's "split rudder" and three-engine layout represent not only technological breakthroughs but also a strategic breakthrough in China's aerospace industry amidst global military competition. Whether it's the exponential improvement in stealth performance or the multi-purpose potential brought by the side-by-side seating, J-36 demonstrates China's control over the definition of sixth-generation fighters. As testing progresses, more details about J-36 and Shenyang Aircraft Corporation's new generation of fighters will continue to emerge, further consolidating China's leading advantage in the sixth-generation fighter domain.
In the future, the service of J-36 will not only reshape the strategic balance in the Asia-Pacific region but may also drive the innovation of global air combat concepts. Every test flight of this aircraft proclaims China's ambition and strength to the world.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7499009269149221391/
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