Shenyang Aircraft Co. has been selected to head research and development of the fourth-generation fighter, the industry news magazine said, quoting the source from the China Aviation Industry Corp. I.

The development of engines and weapon sub-systems for the fighter -- tentatively dubbed the J-X, and with some of the design traits of the stealthy US F/A-22 warplane -- has been underway for some time.

China Aviation Industry sources would not speculate on when the fighter might make its first test flight, but Jane's said a debut could be expected around the end of the decade.

SPACE.WIRE