Footage surfaces of China testing a J-20 with powerful new engines

Plus: Meta to launch new “Twitter killer” Threads app tomorrow Sponsored by China's test flight of a J-20 “stealth” fighter with domestically produced WS-15 engines has sparked excitement and speculation among military experts. The footage of the maiden flight, which surfaced on social media, suggests that China is closing the technological gap with the United States. The lack of censorship of the posts is seen as quasi-official confirmation of the WS-15 engine's successful development. We've more on this story in [today’s Must Read]( , below. But first, here’s [your video of the day](. Good morning. I’m Tim, an Editor at IE. This is the Blueprint. Let’s get into it. Last Sunday, Blueprint subscribers learned about how low power photovoltaic cells could replace disposable batteries. Don't miss out — [subscribe to IE+]( today to receive exclusive interviews, features, and much more. VIDEO OF THE DAY [Combat Vehicle 90]( [Combat Vehicle 90: a cold war warrior on Ukraine's modern battlefield]( With its exceptional capabilities, the CV90 has proven its worth in various operations, and is now set to serve in Ukraine. This article delves into its impressive features and adaptability, highlighting its role in enhancing Ukraine's defense artillery. MUST READ [J-20]( [Footage surfaces of China testing a J-20 with twin WS-15 engines to rival the US]( With tensions rising in the Asia-Pacific region, China's development of a competitive stealth aircraft is a strategic move to rival the US capabilities. Experts believe that the new engine enhances the J-20's maneuverability and climbing speed, putting it on par with American F-22 and F-35 stealth fighters. The WS-15 engine is expected to resolve performance issues and make the J-20 more fuel-efficient, enabling longer patrols and extended air defense duties. However, some experts caution that further tests and improvements are needed before mass production can begin. China has produced over 200 J-20 fighters, mostly powered by Russian engines but with a few equipped with the WS-10C engine as an interim solution. [Read More]( CULTURE Twitter killer: Meta to launch new Threads app on July 6 Social media giant Meta is preparing to challenge Twitter by launching a competing app called Threads. Unlike Instagram — its photo-sharing platform — Threads is a “text-based conversation app” and is expected to be available on Apple's App Store from Thursday. [Read More]( THE SPONSOR OF THE DAY [Two dogs waiting for food]( [Real, pre-portioned meals dogs drool over -- Get 50% OFF.]( Experience the difference with Nom Nom's fresh dog food. Made with hearty, real proteins dogs love and packed full of essential nutrients. Every meal is made just for your dog to help promote a happy, healthy life. [Get 50% off]( first two weeks (and get free shipping) when you order today. [LEARN MORE]( INNOVATION A modified 'space catapult' could fly to space to deflect asteroids California-based nonprofit The Aerospace Corporation is developing an asteroid deflection system designed to tackle mid-sized asteroids capable of causing widespread damage on Earth. Their centrifugal system will anchor itself onto the space rock, extract pieces from it and fling them outward, deflecting the asteroid away from its original path. [Read More]( SCIENCE Record number of sunspots observed in June has solar scientists worried A record number of spots on the Sun's surface is worrying solar scientists. The star of our solar system is defying predictions and heading into a much stronger solar cycle, which could impact us here on Earth. [Read More]( MAIL & MUSINGS Will Meta’s new Threads app succeed as a “Twitter killer”? [Yes, Twitter is vulnerable]( [No, Twitter is unique]( [Too early to say]( [They will co-exist]( YESTERDAY'S RESULTS Traditional pyrotechnics emerged with 36 percent of the vote yesterday, while drones and drones with fireworks each attracted 26 percent. 36% Fireworks 26% Drones 26% Drones with fireworks! 13% Neither QUOTE OF THE DAY The Chinese air force finally got the engine it had long been waiting for. 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