According to Flight International magazine, the U.S. Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) suggests the PRC has begun preliminary studies on a twin-engine, multi-role fighter, which it refers to as the XXJ. The new aircraft could be expected to enter service around 2015. Sources within Chengdu Aircraft Company confirms that it has begun preliminary studies on a twin-engine design, which may also be named the J-12, and is considering both single and dual crew configurations. Other speculations suggest a stealthy aircraft with internal weapons bays and excellent flight characteristics comparable to the F-22 of the USAF.