---

At the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, a model of the “White Emperor” fighter jet was unveiled.

According to a report by the American magazine National Interest, the “White Emperor“, a sixth-generation fighter with space capabilities, is part of the Nantianmen project, which aims to develop a design that bridges atmospheric and spaceflight capabilities.

• The Ukrainian crisis through the lens of China… “This is the only solution”

• China seeks mediation role to halt Gaza War

The aircraft features internal missile bays to enhance stealth, exceptional capabilities for landing on unprepared airstrips, and a structure capable of carrying heavy payloads.

Initially, the Shenyang J-35A, the naval version of the Shenyang FC-31, was expected to be the star of the show. The Chinese Air Force had piqued public interest through social media posts showcasing experimental models bearing the number “75” on their tails, commemorating the anniversary of the Air Force.

However, another aircraft stole the spotlight: the previously undisclosed “White Emperor”.

• Prioritizing Interests: What’s Behind China’s Strategy in the Gulf States? China’s Presence in the Gulf States

• Despite China’s penetration.. Why has the American strategy become important? 

The Washington Post, quoting Voice of China, a branch of China’s state broadcaster, reported that “Baidi,” or “White Emperor,” is a project by the state-owned AVIC corporation, specializing in aircraft and defense manufacturing. The goal is to develop what official media described as an “integrated air and space fighter.”

The design concept includes the ability to fly at hypersonic speeds and penetrate the Earth’s atmosphere to operate in space.

Images shared on social media revealed some details, but skeptics questioned the aircraft’s wings’ ability to enhance stealth. Others suggested it might simply be a version inspired by futuristic fighters seen in the popular video game series Ace Combat.

• China launches new Earth observation satellite

• Ukraine crisis tests China-Russia partnership

According to the magazine, “The appearance of the White Emperor represents not only a technological breakthrough in stealth and fighter aircraft design but also a bold new chapter in China’s space ambitions. It reflects a clear aspiration to dominate not just the skies but also outer space.”

Challenges and Doubts

The magazine also highlighted doubts about China’s ability to quickly develop and deploy this technology, especially considering past challenges in engine development for the fifth-generation Chengdu J-20.

• China, Morocco enhance economic cooperation under Belt and Road Initiative

• Saudi Arabia ranks among China’s top oil suppliers for the ninth consecutive month

It seems hard to believe that the People’s Liberation Army Air Force has made a “great leap forward” from struggling to produce a fifth-generation fighter to suddenly manufacturing a space-capable aircraft and showcasing it to the world.

The report concluded that the “White Emperor” represents an ambitious step in China’s aerial and space goals. However, it might simply be part of a propaganda campaign aimed at bolstering its international standing. The question remains: is it a genuine achievement or just a show?

• The prices of oil influenced by the US-China tensions, and the rise of coronavirus cases

• Beijing Strengthens Defense Capabilities with the “HQ-19”: A Missile Shield Protecting Chinese Airspace