China may be adjusting and upgrading its FC-31, which cannot find customers, to serve the naval air force.

China Aviation Science and Technology Group said in late June that it was developing a new fighter project, aiming to make its first test flight next year.

The announcement did not include details of the new fighter, but the Shenyang Research Institute was the site of the development of J-15, China's first aircraft carrier, and the stealth prototype FC-31.

The FC-31 prototype, which resembles the U.S. F-35 super fighter, was launched by the Shenyang Institute in 2012 with the ambition to compete with J-20 to become the first stealth fighter.

However, the Chinese Air Force later opted for the J-20, making the FC-31 a stealthy fighter that was "outdated" and not mass produced.

One of the reasons FC-31 was unpopular was probably due to the disappointing debut at China Airshow 2014, when the aircraft performed with a black exhaust engine.

For export purposes, FC-31 has participated in many air exhibitions since the first flight in 2012 but still could not attract customers.

The FC-31 prototype then underwent several major design changes to test its aircraft manufacturing technology.

Military expert Shi Lao in Shanghai said the new fighter could be an upgrade of the FC-31, which is optimized for the navy with an aircraft launcher support design.

China is operating two aircraft carriers with a jump bridge design.

FC-31 has a maximum takeoff volume of about 28 tons, much lower than the 37 tons of J-20.

An improved FC-31 prototype enhanced by a recent flight test indicates that China is pushing for a new fighter development project.

"Like previous fighters, the engine will be a key issue with the new fighter model," expert Shi Lao said.

China still faces many difficulties in producing modern jet engines.

"It is likely that the J-35 will gradually replace and replace the J-15, which is significantly limited in range and weapon load when operating on the aircraft carrier. It will be optimized for