Summary China is developing the Shenyang FC-31 Gyrfalcon, a 5th-generation fighter jet that could possibly be exported to Pakistan and Egypt. A carrier-based variant of the FC-31 called the J-35 is expected to operate off China's new Type 003 aircraft carrier. China is also developing a sixth-generation fighter jet, the J-XD, and a stealth strategic bomber, the H-20, comparable to the B-2 Spirit.
The Chinese are in the process of modernizing and rapidly building their air force . China is already believed to produce at least 240 fighter jets annually . This includes around 100 J-20 Mighty Dragons, 40 J-10C Vigorous Dragons, over 100 J-16 Hidden Dragons, and an unknown number of J-11s and J-15s (Russian Flanker derivatives).
But what combat aircraft is China known to have in development? Here are three known Chinese combat aircraft in the works. Shenyang FC-31 Gyrfalcon The FC-31 (also called the J-31 or J-35) is often compared to the US's F-35 Lightning II fighter jet (the Chinese are often accused of technology theft from the F-35). The FC-31 is currently in development and is a twinjet 5th-generation fighter jet being developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC).
When it comes into service, it will be China's second fifth-generation fighter. It is unclear if the PLAAF is interested in procuring the jet to operate alongside the J-20 or not. The aircraft is believed to have been developed as a private venture by the aircraft manufacturer.
SAC pressed ahead and developed t.