A Bomber or a Fighter-Bomber? The JH-XX is a mysterious and enigmatic aircraft recently unveiled by China. Also known as the J-36 by some analysts, this sixth-generation aircraft has become something of a head-scratcher in the west.
With virtually no confirmed information about the aircraft, analysts can do little more than speculate about the nature and capabilities of the jet based on the incredibly limited footage we have.
J-20 Stealth Fighter. Image Credit: Industry Handout.
We do know one thing: it has just one mission, and that means to cause trouble for the U.S. military in a future war.
JH-XX in 2 Words: A Giant Mystery
Some readers who are not as familiar with Chinese sixth-generation aircraft might be confused. Is there a difference between the JH-XX and the J-36?
The answer is probably not. It is believed that the JH-XX and the J-36, which has been appearing more and more frequently, are the same aircraft. However, we still do not know that for sure. The JH-XX is believed to be a regional bomber or a fighter-bomber. The J-36, on the other hand, is believed by some to be a multi-role air superiority aircraft. For the sake of simplicity, I’m going to assume that the JH-XX and the J-36 are the same aircraft until China confirms otherwise.
Development and Design
The plane is believed to be the second stealth bomber confirmed by U.S. intelligence to be under development by China, following the Xian H-20.
The designation “JH-XX” was given by western intelligence agencies, as the true title is still unknown. The aircraft is allegedly designed to fill the gap between strategic bombers like the H-20 and smaller, tactical fighter jets. It was first publicly observed in December 2024, flying over Chengdu, Sichuan, accompanied by a Chengdu J-20S twin-seater stealth fighter as a chase plane.
Based on the videos coming out of China JH-XX features a tailless flying-wing design, which is optimized for stealth. This design is supposed to reduce the radar cross-section, making the aircraft harder to detect by enemy radar systems. The stealth technology employed in the JH-XX is likely to be on par with fifth-generation fighter jets, incorporating features such as supercruise, thrust vectoring, and advanced materials to further reduce its visibility.
What is the JH-XX Capable of?
While specific details about the JH-XX’s capabilities remain classified, analysts have speculated about some of its features based on its design and observed flight characteristics. The aircraft is speculated to be capable of long-range strikes and nuclear weapons delivery, adding a strategic dimension to its tactical role.
The JH-XX’s tailless flying-wing makes it quite stealthy and highly manuverable. The aircraft is expected to employ advanced stealth technology, including radar-absorbing materials and coatings, to minimize its radar signature.
Additionally, the JH-XX is likely to be equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and sensors that provide superior situational awareness and targeting capabilities. These advanced systems would enable the bomber to operate effectively in contested environments, where electronic warfare and countermeasures are prevalent.
The JH-XX possesses a weapons bay similar to that seen on the J-20 and J-35. Meaning that it is designed to carry a variety of munitions, including precision-guided bombs, air-to-surface missiles, and potentially nuclear weapons. This versatility allows the aircraft to perform a wide range of missions, from tactical strikes to strategic deterrence. The ability to deliver nuclear weapons would significantly enhance China’s nuclear deterrence capabilities, providing a credible second-strike option in the event of a conflict.
Why China Wants the JH-XX
The development of the JH-XX has significant strategic implications for the United States and its allies in the region. If it is a regional stealth bomber, the JH-XX enhances China’s regional strike capabilities, enabling it to project power and deter potential adversaries.
The aircraft’s long-range strike capability allows China to target strategic locations far from its borders, increasing its influence and reach in the region.
The JH-XX’s ability to conduct long-range strike missions deep into enemy territory is crucial for regional power projection and deterrence. This capability enables China to threaten key military and economic targets in the Indo-Pacific region, thereby enhancing its strategic position.
The JH-XX’s stealth characteristics also make it a formidable adversary, as it can evade detection and strike with precision.
The JH-XX’s potential to deliver nuclear weapons makes it a major threat to China’s enemies. This capability enhances China’s nuclear deterrence posture, providing a credible second-strike option in the event of a conflict. The JH-XX’s advanced avionics and sensors also enable it to operate effectively in contested environments, where electronic warfare and countermeasures are prevalent. This makes the aircraft a valuable asset for both offensive and defensive operations and a potential nightmare for the U.S.
To Early to Tell
The JH-XX is an aircraft shrouded in mystery. Even its simplest qualities are still unknown to the west, leaving many unsure whether to take it seriously.
Assuming all the speculation is correct, the JH-XX represents a very real threat to American interests in the region. Moreover, whether the jet is everything its made out to be, the undeniable fact is that the jet is flying. So far there have been three sightings of the aircraft in China. While it could be a prototype in early stages of development, it has been seen flying, which cannot be said about the F-47 yet.
China’s Stealth Fighters: A Story in Photos
J-20 Fighter. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
J-20 Fighter. Image Credit: Chinese internet.
J-20 Fighter. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
About the Author: Isaac Seitz
Isaac Seitz, a 19FortyFive Defense Columnist, graduated from Patrick Henry College’s Strategic Intelligence and National Security program. He has also studied Russian at Middlebury Language Schools and has worked as an intelligence Analyst in the private sector.
