China's Chengdu J-20 has indeed been flown for the first time in public, as confirmed by numerous online reports, photos and video of the large, delta-winged aircraft getting airborne. Chinese President Hu Jintao also has confirmed the milestone.
Earlier in the week the industry was speculating as to whether or not the maiden flight of the stealthy Chengdu J-20 prototype actually took place.
Flightglobal has videos and pictures of what could be China's new fifth generation fighter aircraft's first flight.
Here's an image that Stephen Trimble, Flightglobal's Americas Managing Editor suspected demonstrates the J-20 had it's first flight. But is it real?
Photos leaked onto Chinese web sites since late September show an aircraft with an F-22-like frontal design, plus moving canards and tail fins.
Last week, colleague Greg Waldron was suspicious of the authenticity of the pictures that emerged on Chinese website. In his blog post on Asian Skies, he writes about how unlikely it would be for China to become more open about military affairs.
"Openness," he wrote "is not about showing what kit you have, but telling people what your plans are, offering reassurance about your intentions, and generally being a considerate neighbour. China's tough talk on the South China Sea last year, continued support of North Korea, and clashes with Japan over disputed islands all leave little room for comfort."
What are your thoughts on the pictures and video and China's agenda?
Here's Flightglobal's Deputy Asia Editor Greg Waldron with his views on the J-20's first appearance.
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