The J-36, J-50, GJ-11 and a handful of other prototype aircraft all adopted a similar structure (flying doritos) with no tails and a lifting body. Furthermore, the J-50 and likely J-36 are supersonic aircraft and I don't believe there has been a supersonic flying wing yet. Why is China investing in this design so heavily and how are they able to avoid the major hiccups of similar aircraft that the West has faced?

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[–] Pog_Susser_Tod@hexbear.net 16 points 9 months ago

I remember reading somewhere that delta wings are good for quick and efficient lift, provide greater fuel storage, and perform best at high speeds and high altitudes. If I allow myself to armchair general for a little, this makes sense for a country focusing on its defense. The threat of US stealth bombers and fighters mean China probably values fighters that can quickly get to their desired altitude to intercept.