Second J-36 prototype appears with thrust-vectoring nozzles, new intakes and new landing gear

Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (AVIC)/J-36

A second J-36 prototype was seen in flight testing about ten months after the first. It swaps the first jet's recessed, stealth-focused exhausts for flat nozzles that appear able to steer thrust, trading some rear stealth for agility. Its intakes and main landing gear were also redesigned.

• Nozzles changed from recessed troughs to angular, F-22-style 2D nozzles.
• Side intakes appear changed to a bump-type supersonic design.
• Main landing gear changed from tandem to side-by-side wheels, possibly freeing space for weapons.
• Some observers see it as closer to the production design.