China's J-36 completes critical test flight to challenge U.S. air dominance

In March 2025, China's suspected sixth-generation fighter jet, designated the J-36, successfully completed its second test flight. This event occurred at the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation headquarters, marking significant progress in China's military aviation capabilities. While details about the aircraft remain highly classified, analysts believe its design includes stealth features typical of next-generation fighters, positioning it as a competitor to U.S. Air Force and Navy programs. This flight is part of a broader strategy where China aims to advance its air power, especially in light of ongoing developments in the U.S. Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) and F/A-XX programs, indicating China's intent to catch up with American innovation in military aviation. The emergence of the J-36 reflects China's commitment to developing advanced fighter jets, further enhancing its military capabilities. Analysts suggest that, while the J-20 “Mighty Dragon” has entered service, the J-36 may potentially offer superior performance, posing a threat to U.S. air superiority in the long term. The testing phase for the J-36 is still underway, and its operational status remains uncertain, with observations noting features like a tailless configuration and the absence of horizontal control surfaces. The growing advancements in China's aerial technology underscore the increasing competition for dominance in the skies between the U.S. and China.