New J20 stealth fighter prototype spotted and successful tests could start China's J20 stealth production and deployment

The Chengdu J-20 is a Stealth, twin-engine fifth-generation fighter aircraft prototype being developed by Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group for the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The J-20 has the potential to rival the F-22A Raptor in performance once appropriate engines become available.

If J20 tests are successful this year, small numbers of J-20 fighters can go into production for frontline units of the PLA Air Force, a military expert told Duowei. Knowledgeable sources have said the sensors and cyber warfare capability of the J-20 are as good as Lockheed Martin's F-35.

A Pentagon report predicted the J-20 may enter service in 2018 and the PLA could have its first squadron of 24 of the aircraft by 2020.

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