Satellite Imagery of China's Fifth-Generation Combat Aircraft

A prototype for China's fifth-generation combat aircraft, dubbed the J-20, made its inaugural flight in southwest China on Jan. 11. While leaked photos and video show a potentially advanced exterior design, the aircraft's status, sophistication and capabilities are still quite unclear. Advanced aircraft design is a long process, and China lags the United States considerably in experience in this field. Still, it is noteworthy that China is moving toward fifth-generation capability, and the J-20's progress bears watching.