China expands secretive Xinjiang air bases for advanced aircraft testing

Satellite imagery and aviation research indicate that China is rapidly expanding military flight-test facilities in its western Xinjiang region. Analysts suggest these developments are part of an effort to accelerate the testing of next-generation aircraft amid intensifying air-power competition with the United States.

New images appear to show the WZ-X, a large, high-altitude intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) drone. Described as a twin-engined flying-wing design, the WZ-X is estimated to be comparable in size to the US Air Force’s B-21 Raider, with a possible wingspan of approximately 52 meters. The aircraft has been linked to the Malan Air Base, which serves as a primary test center for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF).

Simultaneously, significant infrastructure expansion has been observed at a facility near Lop Nur. Recent satellite photos reveal new hangars, taxiways, and fuel-storage infrastructure. Experts suggest this site may become a central testing hub for high-end, next-generation aircraft, including the J-36, a suspected sixth-generation tailless fighter.