China spoke at the 15th International Aviation Exhibition. As host country, it revealed a series of innovations, including details about the Shenyang J-35, a potential competitor to the US Lockheed Martin F-35. However, attention has also turned to a more enigmatic project – a fighter plane for air and space operations.
The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) has presented the concept of a fighter plane called Baidi, a supersonic designed for advanced air and space missions. This ambitious prototype is part of the Nantianmen Project.
The Baidi model revealed features surprisingly unconventional and futuristic design elements. Its appearance is somewhat similar to that of the Lockheed SR-72 concept being developed in the United States, a project famous for being linked to the film "Top Gun: Maverick".
This fighter plane is expected to be a game-changer for the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). According to the Interesting EngineeringBaidi is more than just a conceptual design - it is an evolving project. Over time, its internal weapons compartment was expanded to accommodate heavier weaponry.
What is known so far about this fighter plane
Videos that circulated on Chinese platforms during the exhibition suggest that the Baidi will be a manned aircraft.
Its chassis appears to use advanced materials and sleek lines to minimize radar detection. Despite the promising design, Details about its capabilities and usage schedule remain secret.
The project highlights China's commitment to improving its defense capabilities in the air and space.
In fact, US intelligence reported two years ago that China had the resources to begin developing a sixth-generation space fighter, suggesting that the Baidi concept could be a step in that direction.
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Source: pplware.sapo.pt
