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Flight testing of China\u2019s two new next-generation fighter designs is continuing apace and offering new insights into both aircraft. The latest imagery of the larger of the two designs, commonly \u2014 but unofficially \u2014 called the J-36<\/a>, offers the clearest look to date at the exhausts for its three engines and a new angle into its possible two-seat cockpit. Additional views of the second type, referred to variously as the J-XDS and J-50<\/a>, show the interesting bay configuration on the side of the fuselage immediately behind the air intake and highlight other distinctive features like its swiveling wingtip control surfaces.<\/p>\n TWZ<\/em> has previously published a highly detailed analysis of both the J-36 and J-XDS\/J-50, which readers can find here<\/a>.<\/p>\n There are no clear indications that the latest pictures and videos of the J-36 and J-XDS\/J-50 have been fabricated, but this remains a possibility, albeit a very small one. Versions of some pictures of the aircraft that have been deliberately enhanced using generative artificial intelligence (AI) to try to glean more details are known to be circulating online<\/a>. Many phone cameras now produce images that are similarly \u2018smoothed\u2019 by default, as well.<\/p>\n The newest views of the J-36 in a video and associated still images, seen in the social media posts below, which are said to have been shot in the city of Chengdu. The Chengdu Aircraft Corporation, which has its main plant there<\/a>, is responsible for the aircraft.<\/p>\n\n\n As noted, the new rear aspect view of the J-36 gives the clearest look we\u2019ve seen at the engine exhausts for its trio of engines, which is already a highly unusual feature of the aircraft. As seen below, we can now see \u2018petals\u2019 extending out over the top of the exhaust trenches that sit inward of the aircraft\u2019s tailing edge. This only underscores TWZ<\/em>\u2018s previous analysis<\/a> about the J-36\u2019s exhaust configuration and its major similarities in form and function to that found on Northrop\u2019s YF-23<\/a>. The YF-23 also notably featured an exotic intake design with boundary layer pores to help improve airflow, as you can learn more about here<\/a>.<\/p>\n