The object, estimated to be around 50 feet (15 metres) in length with a slightly wider wingspan, was seen on a small ramp near the northern end of the plant’s co-located airfield. Featuring a diamond-like delta platform, the design showcases a broad central fuselage with two top-mounted engine nacelles and a slender, pointed nose. Notably, the structure is tailless, with exhausts that exhibit a wedge-shaped contour.

 

The airframe’s yellow or tan hue is consistent with China’s use of distinctive yellow primer for prototype military aircraft. However, without landing gear visible in the image, and given the resolution and lighting, its full configuration remains uncertain.

 

Speculation Over Purpose and Design

The appearance of this airframe has sparked speculation about its potential role in China’s next-generation military aviation programme. It could represent a manned medium-weight tactical combat jet, an uncrewed combat air vehicle (UCAV), or even a technology demonstrator. Some have suggested it might merely be a mockup or decoy, designed to mislead foreign intelligence observers.

 

What is certain is its significant departure from Shenyang’s current Flanker-based production line and the stealthy FC-31/J-35 family. This latest design also exhibits notable differences from another tailless heavy tactical airframe associated with Shenyang, revealed in December.

 

Historical comparisons have drawn parallels to Lockheed Martin’s X-44 MANTA (Multi-Axis No-Tail Aircraft) concept from the late 1990s, although the MANTA never progressed beyond design stages.

 

China’s Expanding Aviation Ambitions

China’s ongoing military aviation advancements underscore the rapid modernisation of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). From Chengdu’s 2021 airframe sightings to the 2022 mockups at Lintao Air Base, the country’s state-run aircraft manufacturers have consistently demonstrated their capabilities in both disclosed and classified projects.

 

Adding to the intrigue, new satellite imagery has identified a large black mockup on the “deck” of China’s land-based aircraft carrier test facility in Wuhan. While its purpose remains unclear, the facility has previously displayed prototypes of carrier-based aircraft, further supporting the hypothesis of extensive ongoing research and development.

 

With these developments, all eyes remain on China’s aerospace sector for further revelations. As with the December jets, the appearance of this new airframe signifies the nation’s ambitious trajectory in both manned and unmanned aviation technologies.