PLA J-20 Stealth Fighter Test Flight 2011 (1:144 scale)
- China stunned the world on 11 January 2011 with the maiden flight of its first ever stealth fighter, the J-20. The surprising disclosure of this new fifth-generation aircraft signals China’s bid to join the exclusive club of stealth-aircraft operators. The new single-seat fighter flew for 20 minutes after taking off from Heungtianba Airbase in Chengdu, & although its introduction into military service with the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is still some years off, it’s a milestone for China & its manufacturer Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group. The J-20 is larger & heavier than the American F-22A Raptor, & it uses thrust vector-controlled nozzles (TVC) on its twin jet engines. Its large size allows internal weapons stowage, something essential for a stealth fighter.