China’s New Combat Aircraft Emerge in Test Flights

On December 26, two new Chinese combat aircraft were revealed through social media posts, signaling significant progress in the nation’s aerospace advancements.

New Chinese combat aircraft with a diamond-shaped wing and lacking vertical tails were leaked online on December 26, 2024.

The first aircraft, a three-engine warplane with a tailless diamond-wing design, uses split rudders for yaw control. It features a stealth-optimized dorsal inlet and caret-shaped ventral inlets, balancing stealth with airflow efficiency. Its fuselage likely houses an internal weapons bay, while the dual-wheel landing gear indicates it is built for heavy-duty operations. Analysts speculate this may be the J/H-XX regional bomber, capable of high-altitude precision strikes across the Indo-Pacific, or a prototype for a sixth-generation fighter.

The second aircraft, also seen in test flights, presents a more conventional design, featuring a cranked arrow wing planform and indications of folding tailfins. While details about its role remain unclear, its appearance highlights China's rapid advancements in military aviation.

These developments underscore the importance of robust supply chains and specialized resources to maintain and enhance defense capabilities. Platforms like Milspec Parts support the aerospace industry by streamlining access to military-grade components, while tools such as National Stock Number help decode and source NSNs critical for global logistics and procurement efforts.

While China’s military advancements continue to garner attention, the global aerospace landscape is witnessing growing competition, with countries racing to develop next-generation technologies. These new aircraft could serve as critical components of China’s strategic vision for defense superiority in the Indo-Pacific region, challenging other powers and reshaping future military dynamics.

The unveiling coincided with significant dates in Chinese aviation history, including the J-20 stealth fighter’s anniversary. Although official statements have not confirmed the aircraft's purpose, the U.S. Defense Department has previously linked similar projects to China’s pursuit of stealth bombers and next-generation fighters, emphasizing its growing ambitions in regional and global defense innovation.