Isn't it true that pulse detonation engines are inferior to continuous detonation engines like the rotating detonation engine and oblique detonation engine that China has test flown many times in the past. PDE was just a stepping stone as a study in the detonation engine tech branch.
In addition to these propulsion methods which are suitable for higher speeds, combined cycle engines is another field where China looks like it has a lead in since it's flight tested more than the US. The US announces exotic engine and experimental craft tests if history is any indication. China and US both have closely guarded black budget programs so it is difficult to imagine that the US certainly has any advantage in combined cycle engines. I wouldn't be surprised if the combined cycle engines test flown by China that was revealed in recent years are not much more dated than offered, where the technology has made its way to becoming more integrated with various atmospheric and space related programs.
While credible leaks suggest that the CAC's 6th gen will eventually be variable cycle engine powered rather than combined cycle or having the third engine be some detonation engine or scramjet, this does not preclude the many other Chinese programs which may be making use of these other propulsion methods.
In addition to these propulsion methods which are suitable for higher speeds, combined cycle engines is another field where China looks like it has a lead in since it's flight tested more than the US. The US announces exotic engine and experimental craft tests if history is any indication. China and US both have closely guarded black budget programs so it is difficult to imagine that the US certainly has any advantage in combined cycle engines. I wouldn't be surprised if the combined cycle engines test flown by China that was revealed in recent years are not much more dated than offered, where the technology has made its way to becoming more integrated with various atmospheric and space related programs.
While credible leaks suggest that the CAC's 6th gen will eventually be variable cycle engine powered rather than combined cycle or having the third engine be some detonation engine or scramjet, this does not preclude the many other Chinese programs which may be making use of these other propulsion methods.
