China stuns the world with sixth-generation ‘White Emperor’ to challenge America’s best fighters

The arms race of the coming decades will not only focus on artificial intelligence but also on dominating the skies. This is a battleground that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky aimed to control following Russia’s invasion in February 2022. It is also a key area of development for the world’s major powers, with the United States and China leading the charge.

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Washington introduced its sixth-generation fighter jet, the B-21 Raider, years ago, intended to be its ultimate aerial weapon. This aircraft is designed to evade enemy radars and carry out long-range attacks and surveillance missions. However, its development plan has been thrown into question by the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk.

A bold cost-cutting plan will also impact defense spending. Meanwhile, Beijing has unveiled a fighter jet prototype that could challenge U.S. air superiority. This is the second version of the ‘White Emperor’ (Baidi), a stealth fighter that has caught the attention of experts due to its potential capabilities.

The aircraft was presented at the Zhuhai Airshow, China’s premier aerospace technology exhibition. Developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the jet is part of the Nantianmen Project, an advanced space technology research program that also includes another fighter, the Xuannv. During the exhibition, it was revealed that this new version aims to enhance human-machine interaction.

An ‘Aggressive’ and Aerodynamic Concept

The fighter jet features a diamond-shaped fuselage and wings, a fully aerodynamic design that underscores China’s commitment to stealth technology, making the aircraft harder to detect. “The pointed yet rounded nose is meticulously designed to cut through the air with minimal turbulence, while its overall shape blends seamlessly with the sky. The cockpit canopy features a dark, multi-sectioned design, likely layered to reduce reflections,” analysts noted.

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The ‘White Emperor’ boasts enhanced stealth capabilities, while its weapons bay has been enlarged to carry hypersonic, nuclear-capable missiles. Additionally, it is equipped with anti-satellite weapons and is designed for operations at near-space altitudes.

The chief designer of Chengdu Aerospace, China’s leading fighter jet manufacturer, initially estimated that the aircraft could be ready by 2035. However, after it was seen in flight at the end of December, the timeline could be moved up significantly.