China’s New Tailless Stealth Fighters Sighted at Secretive Test Base
The J-36 and J-XDS, two Chinese sixth-generation stealth fighter prototypes, have been operating from a rapidly expanding secret airbase, which might soon be known as China’s version of Area 51.
Satellite Imagery Reveals Location
Recent commercial satellite images mark the first clear public sightings of these fighters outside their usual home bases. Instead of Chengdu and Shenyang—the manufacturers’ airfields—the aircraft were spotted at a remote site near the Lop Nur nuclear test area in northwestern China.
- The J-36, identifiable by its modified delta wing design and distinct ‘splinter’ camouflage, was seen outside the main hangar on August 27, according to archived Planet Labs imagery obtained by The War Zone.
- The J-XDS appeared in a separate image of the same airfield taken on September 13.
Base Linked to Space Plane Development
This Lop Nur facility, already associated with reusable spaceplane projects, is currently undergoing major expansions to support advanced aerospace testing.
The War Zone notes detailed analysis of these fighters is available for those interested in their unique designs and capabilities.
Author’s Summary
China’s secretive airbase near Lop Nur hosts cutting-edge stealth fighters J-36 and J-XDS, signaling rapid advancements in its aerospace and military aviation programs.
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