China’s long-awaited twin-seat J-20 emerges
The much-hyped twin-seat J-20 has become reality, with a prototype being spotted performing a high-speed taxi test. (Chinese Internet)
Surreptitiously taken photos and video taken at the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation’s (CAC) facility prove that a twin-seat version of the J-20A fighter is now a reality. In fact, this confirmation would make it the world’s first twin-seat stealth fighter.
The aircraft’s actual designation is not yet known – with J-20S, J-20AS or J-20B all in contention – but it did perform a high-speed taxi test, believed to have occurred on 26 October. It has not yet taken to the air.
Rumours of such a variant have been swirling for months. In fact, in January, an official AVIC promotional video celebrating
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
Eurosatory 2026: Windracers highlights UK drone momentum
Windracers is using Eurosatory 2026 to showcase its ULTRA autonomous cargo aircraft following its selection for a major UK support package for Ukraine and growing government backing for drone operations.
-
India’s AMCA fifth-gen fighter roadmap firms up with private sector push
As a major shortfall in Indian fighter jet capability looms, New Delhi is looking to spread risk and accelerate delivery of its fifth-generation combat aircraft.
-
USAF plans major CCA expansion with new suppliers and billions in funding
US Air Force leaders say open architecture and broader industry participation will help deliver affordable autonomous wingmen capable of overwhelming future adversaries.
-
Airbus unveils expansion of uncrewed portfolio with new CCA and helicopter platforms
The manufacturer is betting heavily on the demand for uncrewed systems, revealing the uncrewed H145M – known as the U145 – and the U760 Ravenstorm at ILA Berlin 2026 as the two latest additions to its expanding UAV offering.