PLA J-20 Stealth Fighter - Test Flight Heungtianba Airport Chengdu 2011

China surprised the world on January 11, 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, and 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 and its manufacturer Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group. The J-20 is larger and heavier than the American F-22A Raptor, and 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.

Even though the J-20 was only recently unveiled, Dragon Warbirds has produced an accurately dimensioned model of this groundbreaking fighter as it appeared during the Chengdu test flight. The model is made to 1/144 scale, and it’s authentically painted and carries the requisite PLAAF markings. Detail is crisp and sharply molded, and the length and size of this fighter is most impressive. Detailed landing gear is also included, and it can be exhibited on a modern-looking display stand. This is a stunning model of a stealth fighter. Not only is it Warbirds’ first ever J-20, it’s the very first Chinese subject in the range too!