A new image has surfaced online that reportedly shows China's next-generation stealth aircraft, the so-called J36, parked on the ground. If genuine, the picture gives us some fascinating insight into the aircraft's design, most notably the front of it.

Chinese media estimates the J-36 to be about 75 feet long and weigh between 99,200 and 119,000 pounds, significantly larger and heavier than fifth-generation jets like the J-20, which weighs around 75,000 to 82,000 pounds.

One of the standout features of the new images is the J-36's cockpit section. Interestingly, it seems to have side-by-side seating (two seats next to each other), which is very rare for fighter jets.

This arrangement is more like what you'd see in a bomber or strike aircraft like the F-111 or Russia’s Su-34. The images also seem to confirm that the J-36 appears to have three open internal weapons bays underneath, one large center bay and two smaller ones on each side.

This suggests the plane is very large, with significant internal space, capable of carrying a wide range of weapons, both small missiles and large standoff weapons (like cruise missiles). The side bays were previously just speculation, but this photo seems to confirm them.

Image suggests triple-engine configuration

Another notable feature is that the nose appears to have gold-tinted sensor windows. These are most likely for tracking and targeting, similar to what you'd find on U.S. stealth aircraft.

As previously speculated, the new image also reveals that the J-36 features three air intakes, two positioned below and one on top (dorsal), suggesting a triple-engine configuration. The lower intakes look similar to those on the F-22 Raptor, suggesting a focus on stealth and high-speed performance.

The aircraft’s three-engine design is unconventional, as most modern fighters typically use two engines for a balance of power and safety. This setup, it is speculated, could provide increased thrust for higher speeds and heavier payloads over long distances. Still, it also comes with higher fuel consumption and more complex maintenance requirements.

As for the authenticity of the released image, the photo appears genuine, albeit with some caveats. For example, there are unusual visual artifacts, possibly due to image editing or camera distortion.

The image also appears to be a photograph of a computer screen, rather than a direct digital image. Some areas, especially around the engine and landing gear, appear smudged or have glare, which can lead to uncertainty.

Shaping up to be a multi-role aircraft?

That said, key background elements match known features of a test facility at the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation in China, known to be developing the J-36, lending credibility to the photo.

However, if bona fide, the image shows that the J-36 is shaping up to be not just a stealth fighter, but a multi-role aircraft. To this end, it may combine features from various aircraft types, such as heavy tactical fighters, regional bombers, and a standoff weapons platform.

This blurs the line between fighters and bombers, much like the B-21 Raider in the U.S., which isn't just a 'bomber' in the traditional sense, but a multi-role stealth platform.

The J-36 is just one of two major Chinese 6th-generation programs; the other is the J-XDS, also known as the J-50. Both jets have been seen operating out of Chengdu.

To this end, China seems to be prioritizing flexibility, stealth, and internal weapon carriage, much like the U.S. and its B-21 and NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance) programs.