Aircraft
Fifth-generation Fighters Officially Move Into Next Phases
Both China's J-20 and Russia's Su-57 have reached significant milestones—at least officially—but the programs both face engine-development delays.
Two J-20s made the type's public debut at the Zhuhai air show in November 2016. (Photo: Chinese Internet)
Two J-20s made the type's public debut at the Zhuhai air show in November 2016. (Photo: Chinese Internet)

In recent weeks both Russia and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) announced that their fifth-generation fighter programs had advanced in their steps to enter service. The two aircraft—the Sukhoi Su-57 and the Chengdu J-20—have been flying for several years and have completed programs of test and validation schedules. However, both platforms are still lacking series production, next-generation engines and other on-board sub-systems that would make them complete fifth-generation aircraft.