THE NEW CHINESE
ARMY AIR FORCE
CHINESE CRASH KILLS TOP ENGINEERS
KJ-2000 AIRBORNE RADAR PLANE
CLICK HERE TO READ THE STORY AT NEWSMAX.COM
INTRODUCTION
The People's Liberation Army Air Force is the
largest military air force in the world with over 6,000 military airplanes and over
300,000 active personnel. The new
PLAAF is updating its inventory of MiG-21 and MiG-19 copies with planned purchases of the advanced Russian
made Sukhoi SU-27 FLANKER series and the newly developed J-10 strike fighter.
2006 CURRENT ESTIMATED INVENTORY PLAAF
===========================================================
People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) Aerospatiale SA.316 6 Aerospatiale SA.321 10 Aerospatiale SA.342L 8 Antonov AN-26 12 Antonov AN-30 8 Boeing 767-300ER 1 Boeing 737 10 Boeing 737C3 1 British Aero Trident 1E 6 British Aero Trident 2E 10 Canadair CL-601 5 Changhe Z-11 30 AS-555 Chengdu J-10 12 Chengdu J-7 322 MiG-21 Chengdu J-7II 99 Eurocopter AS332 6 Guizhou JJ-7 50 MiG-21 HAIG K-8J 25 Harbin H-5 150 Il-28 Harbin HJ-5 87 Il-28 Harbin Hz-5 40 Il-28 Harbin Y-11 15 Harbin Y-12 2 Harbin Z-6 30 Harbin Z-9 25 AS365N Ilyushin KL-2000 2 Ilyushin IL-18 10 Ilyushin IL-76 20 MiG (* see note) MiG-31 24 Mil MI-6 3 Mil MI-8 30 Mil MI-17 24 Mil MI-171 69 Mil MI-171v-5 35 Nanchang CJ-6 1419 MiG-19 Nanchang Q-5 500 Shaanxi Y-8 48 An-12 Shenyang J-6 1000 MiG-19 Shenyang J-7 300 MiG-21 Shenyang J-8/-8II 180 Shenyang JJ-6 150 MiG-19 Shenyang JZ-6 100 MiG-19 Shenyang J-11 67 SU-27SK Shijiazhuang Y-5 300 An-2 Sikorsky S-70 22 Sukhoi SU-27SK 52 Sukhoi SU-27UBK 40 Sukhoi SU-30 72 Tupolev TU-154M/D 4 Xian H-6 132 Tu-16 Xian Y-7 23 An-24 People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) Chengdu Z-8 12 SA321 Chengdu J-7 100 MiG-21 Harbin H-5 50 IL-28 Harbin H-6 30 Tu-16 Harbin SH-5 4 Harbin Z-5 6 Mi-4 Harbin Z-9 25 AS365N Kamov Ka-28 8 Nanchang Q-5 93 Shaanxi Y-8 AEW 2 Shenyang J-5 100 MiG-17 Shenyang J-6 300 MiG-19 Sukhoi SU-30 24 Shijiazhuang Y-5 50 AN-2 Xian H-6 51 Xian Y-7 4 AN-24 Xian JH-7 20 (* unconfirmed transfer)
MAIN AIRCRAFT TYPES
Y-8 BALANCE BEAM AIRBORNE EARLY WARNING
MAKER: SHAANXI AIRCRAFT INDUSTRY CORP.
TYPE: AIRBORNE RADAR EARLY WARNING
LENGTH: 121 FEET 4 INCHES
SPAN: 124 FEET 8 INCHES
RANGE: 3000 MILES
HEIGHT: 34.22 FEET
WEIGHT: 118,000 POUNDS NORMAL TAKE OFF
ENGINE: FOUR P&W CANADA PW150B TURBOPROP
TOP SPEED: 380 MPH
The new Chinese Y-8 is truly an international effort. The Y-8 is a Chinese version of the Russian
AN-12 military transport. The aircraft was developed with the assistance of Ukrainian Antonov Design
Bureau. The new Y-8 Chinese airborne radar plane includes navigation avionics from U.S. maker Honeywell,
four Pratt and Whitney Canada PW150B turboprop engines and British Dodi R-408 6-blade propellers.
MAKER: SHAANXI AIRCRAFT INDUSTRY CORP.
TYPE: AIRBORNE RADAR EARLY WARNING
LENGTH: 121 FEET 4 INCHES
SPAN: 124 FEET 8 INCHES
RANGE: 3000 MILES
HEIGHT: 34.22 FEET
WEIGHT: 118,000 POUNDS NORMAL TAKE OFF
ENGINE: FOUR P&W CANADA PW150B TURBOPROP
TOP SPEED: 380 MPH
The new Chinese Y-8 is truly an international effort. The Y-8 is a Chinese version of the Russian AN-12 military transport. The aircraft was developed with the assistance of Ukrainian Antonov Design Bureau. The new Y-8 Chinese airborne radar plane includes navigation avionics from U.S. maker Honeywell, four Pratt and Whitney Canada PW150B turboprop engines and British Dodi R-408 6-blade propellers.
NEW Y-8 BALANCE BEAM AIRBORNE RADAR PLANE
CLICK HERE TO READ THE STORY AT NEWSMAX.COM
The new radar plane, code-named "Balance Beam," is fitted with a linear-shape electronically steered phased-array (ESA) radar. The radar is similar in shape and size to the Swedish Ericsson PS-890 Erieye airborne radar. The radar is to be manufactured by the PLA 38th Institute.
The Y-8 "Balance Beam" will provide the PLAAF with a platform for tactical airborne early warning and electronic intelligence missions. The "Balance Beam" is designed to coordinate Chinese fighters, bombers and strike aircraft via datalinks in air campaigns against Taiwan, Japan, India or the U.S.
FC-1 LIGHT FIGHTER
MAKER: CAC-1 (FORMER CHENDU CAIC), CHINA
TYPE: SUPERSONIC LIGHT FIGHTER
LENGTH: 45.3 FEET
SPAN: 30.9 FEET
RANGE: 900 MILES
HEIGHT: 16.3 FEET
WEIGHT: 28,000 POUNDS MAX
ENGINE: ONE KLIMOV RD-93 TURBOFAN
TOP SPEED: MACH 1.6 AT ALTITUDE
WEAPON LOAD: I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
SD-10, PL-10, PL12
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
The FC-1 has its roots in the now defunct Super-7 program which fell apart after he Tiananmen Square demonstrations
were put down by the PRC. FC-1 development continued under the MiG design bureau using data from the rejected MiG-33
strike fighter.
The FC-1 has 7 stores stations - four under the wing, two on the wing-tips and one under the fuselage.
Fixed weapon is a 23-mm inner cannon hidden inside fuselage.
In addition to the PL-8 short-range infrared-guided air-to-air missile, which was derived from Israeli
Rafael Python-3 technology, the FC-1 could also carry SD-10
medium-range missile. It may also be fitted with indigenously
developed PL-11 or PL-12 medium-range AAM for BVR combat.
CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE FC-1 ON NEWSMAX.COM
For ground attack missions, the FC-1 will carry laser-guided bombs, YJ-8K anti-ship missile, as well as
various unguided bombs and rockets.
The FC-1 is favored by the PLA Navy aviation branch but not by the PLAAF itself which wants
the more capable J-10 strike fighter to replace aging MiG-21 and MiG-19 designs. Pakistan has
funded most of the FC-1 development and may purchase up to 150 of the fighters if it meets
the Pakistani Air Force requirements.
J-10 STRIKE FIGHTER
MAKER: CHENGDU CAIC, CHINA
TYPE: SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 47.4 FEET
SPAN: 28.5 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES
HEIGHT: 15.5 FEET
WEIGHT: 21,500 POUNDS EMPTY
ENGINE: ONE LYULKA SATURN AL-31F TURBOFAN
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.2 AT ALTITUDE
WEAPON LOAD: 9,900 POUNDS
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73, R-77, PL-10, PL12
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
The J-10 has 11 stores stations - six under the wing and five under the fuselage.
The inner wing and centre fuselage stations are plumped to carry external fuel tanks.
Fixed weapon is a 23-mm inner cannon hidden inside fuselage.
In addition to the PL-8 short-range infrared-guided air-to-air missile, which was derived from Israeli
Rafael Python-3 technology, the J-10 could also carry Russian Vympel R-73 (AA-11) short-range and
R-77 (AA-12) medium-range missiles carried by Chinese Flankers. It may also be fitted with indigenously
developed PL-11 or PL-12 medium-range AAM for BVR combat.
For ground attack missions, the J-10 will carry laser-guided bombs, YJ-8K anti-ship missile, as well as
various unguided bombs and rockets. The KH-31 ramjet-powered anti-radiation missile may also be carried by the J-10.
CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE KH-31 KRYPTON MISSILE
SU-30 STRIKE FIGHTER
MAKER: SUKHOI, RUSSIA
TYPE: SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 71.9 FEET
SPAN: 47.8 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES
HEIGHT: 15.5 FEET
WEIGHT: 85,300 POUNDS MAX
ENGINE: TWO LYULKA SATURN AL-31F TURBOFAN
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.2 AT ALTITUDE
WEAPON LOAD: 17,600 POUNDS ON 12 HARDPOINTS
30 MM CANNON
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73, R-77, PL-10, PL12
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
The PLA SU-30 MKK is equipped with the Tikhomirov NIIP N001VE radar which can
range up to 90-110 km in counter-air mode, 70-80km against ground targets and
200-250 km against large ships. The MKK2 version is possibly equipped with the
Phazotron Zhuk-M-S which has a 140km in counter-air mode, and 300km against large ships.
The SU-30 can be equipped with the Kupol M400 side-looking radar pod that can
control up to 10 fighters. The MKK3 is equipped with a Tikomirov “Panda,” radar
that has a 190 km counter air mode or may be equipped with the new version of Zhuk-M-S.
The SU-30 is equipped with an extensive electronics suite including the OLS-30 IRST
(Infrared Search and Track) system that has a 80-100km range. SU-30 pilots are
equipped with the Surya-K Helmet Sight for close in air-to-air combat. SU-30 also have
the Sapsan-E ir/laser targeting pod for ground attack, a APK-9 data link pod for Kh-59ME missile, A-737 satnav system, the L-150 Pastel RWR Radar Warning system, a 96x chaff/flare
dispenser, the Sorbitsya ECM and the Spektr data link.
J-11
SU-27SK FLANKER
SUKHOI SU-27SK "FLANKER"
EXPORT VERSION SOLD TO CHINA AND VIETNAM
MANUFACTURED BY: SUKHOI STATE DESIGN BUREAU
MOSCOW, RUSSIA
TYPE - SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 71.9 FEET
SPAN: 48.2 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES (WITHOUT AIR REFUEL)
HEIGHT: 19.4 FEET
WEIGHT: 50,000 POUNDS
ENGINE: 2 AF-35 AFTERBURNING TURBO FANS
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.3
WEAPON LOAD: 13,670 POUNDS
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73 AND R-77
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AIR LAUNCHED VERSION SS-N-22 SUNBURN
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
SU-30 VERSION EQUIPPED FOR NUCLEAR WEAPONS DELIVERY
SUKHOI SU-34 "FLANKER" TWIN SEAT STRIKE VERSION OF SU-27
ZVEZDA KH-31 SUPER-SONIC MISSILES IN RED (CENTER FOREGROUND)
The
J-11 is the most advanced fighter currently in service with the PLAAF. The J-11
is roughly equal in performance and capability to the western aircraft that
face it including the F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon and the U.S. Navy F-18
Hornet.
The
PLAAF currently operates 78 single-seat Flanker fighters and four twin seat
training versions. PLAAF factories signed a deal with Sukhoi to assemble 150 of
these advanced fighters and build under license another 350.
China
has also concluded a deal to purchase up to two hundred SU-30 two seat long range strike
bomber versions of the FLANKER family from Sukhoi. The first thirty SU-30 fighters
were delivered to the PLAAF in the fall of 2000 and there are an estimated 76 in
active service. The PLAAF SU-30 bombers are equipped to carry Chinese made
nuclear weapons.
The Chinese military is outfitting its Russian-made Su-30 fighter bombers with C-801 anti-ship cruise missiles.
The upgrade will give China's air force a major new strike capability against ships. The C-801 is modeled after the French Exocet anti-ship missile.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW DETAILS ON THE C-801 CRUISE MISSILE
China
United Airline
SAR
SPY PLANE
CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE CHINESE SPY PLANE
TU-154M
MANUFACTURED BY: TUPOLEV STATE DESIGN BUREAU
MOSCOW, RUSSIA
CREW: THREE PILOT/COPILOT/FLG ENGINEER
TYPE: SAR RADAR SURVEILLANCE (RADAR DOME ON BELLY)
CARGO: AIRLINER NORMAL SEATING 180
LENGTH: 157.1 FEET
SPAN: 123.2 FEET
RANGE: 3280 MILES
HEIGHT: 37.4 FEET
WEIGHT: 199077 POUNDS
ENGINE: 3 KUZNETSOV NK-8-2 TURBO FANS
TOP SPEED: 625 MILES AN HOUR
Defense
analysts confirmed that the so-called "civil" aircraft is actually a
Chinese Air Force spy plane equipped with a sophisticated radar and
communications equipment. China United Airlines B-4138 spy plane is a
modified Tupolev TU-154 civil transport equipped with a tub like SAR radar dome
on the belly and several antenna domes on the rear. B-4138 can use its
advanced SAR radar to locate ground vehicles, ships, tanks and even troops from
hundreds of miles away from the battlefield.
LORAL SAR radar export for China
In 1996 Loral Defense
President Jerald Lindfelt wrote Ron Brown seeking export of SAR radars directly
to a Chinese weapons lab.
1996 LORAL
SAR LETTER TO RON BROWN
BOEING
737
FORMER CHINA UNITED 737 NOW A PLAAF C3 PLANE
MANUFACTURED BY: BOEING AIRCRAFT CORP. USA TYPE - FLYING HQ/C3/MILITARY CARGO/TROOP TRANSPORTCREW - TWO PILOT/CO-PILOT OFFICERCARGO - 126 PASSENGERS - 150 PARATROOPERS 12,800 LBS OF CARGORANGE - 2,600 MILES WING SPAN - 94.8 FT.LENGTH - 109.6 FT.HEIGHT - 36.5 FT.WEIGHT - 124,500 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO CFM56-3C-1 TURBOFAN GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMINSPEED - 566 MILES PER HOUR
In 2000 Boeing concluded an agreement with
China United Airlines to sell ten Boeing 737-300 transports. SOFTWAR has
confirmed that the 737 transports are now being used by the PLAAF as troop and
cargo military jets. One 737 has been modified by Xian Aviation into a command post
for the Chinese Army. The 737 is also a prime airframe for the PLAAF to use in
converted roles such as airborne radar or electronic warfare planes.
According to a U.S. government report on the
Chinese military - CHINA UNITED is actually owned and
operated by the PLAAF.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT CHINA UNITED AND BOEING 737 AIRLINERS FOR THE PLAAF
ILYUSHIN
IL-76 CANDID
MANUFACTURED BY: ILYUSHIN DESIGN BUREAU, RUSSIA TYPE - MILITARY CARGO/TROOP TRANSPORTCREW - FOUR PILOT/CO-PILOT TWO FLIGHT ENGINEERSCARGO - 200 PARATROOPERS 132,160 LBS OF CARGORANGE - 2,160 MILES WING SPAN - 165.6 FT.LENGTH - 174.4 FT.HEIGHT - 47.3 FT.WEIGHT - 462,966 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - FOUR PS-90A TURBOFAN GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMINSPEED - 560 MILES PER HOUR
According to it's own website, the PLAAF owned China United Airlines operates a
small fleet of Russian made Ilyushin IL-76 jet transports. The CUA IL-76 transports
are actually operated by the PLAAF 13th Air Division based at Wuhan, Hubei Province
and the PLAAF 34th Air Division based at Nanyuan AFB, Beijing.
The IL-76
four-engine jet is the current front-line PLAAF military transport and the
Chinese civil version is frequently armed with a cannon located in a rear
turret. PLAAF IL-76 transports dropped paratroopers, tanks and artillery
directly on to the battlefield during the fall 2000 Chinese military exercises.
KJ-2000 MODIFIED IL-76 PLAAF AWACS PLANE
MiG-31
FOX HOUND
MANUFACTURED BY: MIKOYAN AVIATION NPO (MiG), RUSSIA TYPE - FIGHTER/INTERCEPTOR/ANTI-SATELLITECREW - TWO IN TANDEM PILOT/WEAPONS OFFICERARM - FOUR HARD POINTS - TWO ON EACH WING, FOUR BELLY HARD POINTS - TYPICAL ANTI-AIR MISSION FOUR R-33 AAMRANGE - 1,630 MILES INTERNAL - HAS AIR REFUELING CAPABILITYWING SPAN - 44.1 FT.LENGTH - 74.5 FT.HEIGHT - 20.2 FT.WEIGHT - 90,000 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING SOLOVIEV D-30GGUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONALSPEED - 1,900 MPH OR MACH 2.8 AT ALTITUDE
UNCONFIRMED**** Russia and China concluded an
agreement to transfer twenty four MiG-31 FOXHOUND fighters to China in 1992.
The agreement included a deal to manufacture up to 200 more inside China. The
transfer cannot be confirmed in that NO MiG-31 aircraft have appeared in the
PLAAF inventory at this time. U.S. intelligence sources indicate that the
MiG-31 may be used by the PLAAF in an anti-satellite role by firing a
specialized missile.
SHENYANG
J-8 FINBACK
MANUFACTURED BY: SHENYANG AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA TYPE - INTERCEPTORCREW - ONE PILOT OFFICERARM - SIX WING HARD POINTS ONE BELLY HARD POINT TWO 30 MM CANNON RANGE - 500 MILES WING SPAN - 30.7 FT.LENGTH - 67.4 FT.HEIGHT - 17.9 FT.WEIGHT - 33,700 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING WP13AGUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMIN IZMRUD AIR TO AIR RADARSPEED - 1500 MPH OR MACH 2.1 AT ALTITUDE
The Shenyang J-8 is the first PLAAF produced
fighter jet. The J-8 is based on a twin-engine design of the Russian made
MiG-21/J-7 and is equipped with a Izmrud intercept radar. The J-8 is considered
a classic "interceptor" in that it is not designed for dog-fighting
with superior western fighter jets but is intended to intercept long range
bombers in a defensive role. The J-8 is comparable in performance and specifications
to the Sukhoi SU-15 FLAGON.
SHENYANG
(CHENGDU) J-7 (MIG-21 FISHBED)
MANUFACTURED BY: SHENYANG AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA CHENGDU AIRCRAFT INDUSTRIAL CORP. TYPE - FIGHTERCREW - ONE PILOT OFFICERARM - FOUR HARD POINTS - TWO ON EACH WING, ONE BELLY HARD POINT TWO 30 MM CANNON RANGE - 400 MILES WING SPAN - 23.5 FT.LENGTH - 45.7 FT.HEIGHT - 13.4 FT.WEIGHT - 19,580 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - ONE AFTERBURNING WP7B(BM)GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMINSPEED - 1500 MPH OR MACH 2.1 AT ALTITUDE
The Chinese made J-7 is an advanced version of
the formidable MiG-21 FISHBED. J-7 design improvements include a cranked-arrow
wing for better low and high speed performance, two extra hard points on each
wing for weapons, improved avionics and upgraded weapons systems. J-7 fighters
are considered to be capable dog-fighters and can press close in air combat
with the best western aircraft.
The J-7 is not the front-line fighter that the PLAAF
would prefer to replace its aging fleet of J-6 FARMER jets. However, nearly 500
J-7 fighters are in service with the PLAAF and the PLAN. Both export and
domestic J-7 jets are fitted with a wide variety of western avionics including
a GEC-Marconi Avionics HUDWAC (head-up display and weapon aiming computer) and
GARMIN GPS bombing navigation systems.
XIAN
FH-7 - SUPERSONIC NUCLEAR STRIKE BOMBER
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON THE HONG 7
MANUFACTURED BY: XIAN AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA TYPE - SUPERSONIC STRIKE BOMBERCREW - TWO IN TANDEM PILOT/WEAPONS OFFICERARM - SIX HARD POINTS - THREE ON EACH WING, ONE BELLY HARD POINT AND WING-TIP HARD POINTS FOR AIR TO AIR MISSILES TOTAL 14,000 LB. EXTERNAL STORES INCLUDING C.802 MISSILES, CONVENTIONAL OR NUCLEAR FREE-FALL BOMBSRANGE - 1,900 MILES WING SPAN - 41.65 FT.LENGTH - 73.22 FT.HEIGHT - 21.56 FT.WEIGHT - 62,000 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING WS-9 (ROLLS ROYCE SPEY BUILT ON LICENSE)GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL INERTIAL AND SAR RADAR - ADVANCED VERSIONS TO BE EQUIPPED WITH LASER DESIGNATOR AND FLIRSPEED - 750 MPH OR MACH 1.7 AT ALTITUDE
The FH-7 (FBC-1 export version) is a twin
engine, swept-wing, super-sonic two seat, all weather attack bomber, equipped
with American GPS bombing - navigation and powered by licensed copies of the
British Rolls Royce Spey engine. The all weather FBC-1 ROCKWELL GPS bombing
system will eventually be upgraded with Chinese made Synthetic Aperture Radar
(SAR) and an infra-red night vision pod.
Chinese engineers bragged that the FBC-1 was
designed with CAD (computer aided design) techniques on U.S. built super
computers. The computers were provided through the China Flight Test
Establishment at Xian University.
Nanchang
Q-5/A-5 FANTAN
MANUFACTURED BY: NANCHANG AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA TYPE - STRIKE BOMBERCREW - ONE PILOT OFFICERARM - SIX HARD POINTS - THREE ON EACH WING FOUR BELLY HARD POINTS 4,400 POUNDS OF BOMBS AND ROCKETS TWO 23 MM CANNONRANGE - 400 MILES WING SPAN - 31.8 FT.LENGTH - 54.8 FT.HEIGHT - 14.8 FT.WEIGHT - 26,400 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING WP-6GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMIN HIGH FIX RADAR/ ALR-1 LASER DESIGNATOR SPEED - 700 MPH
The Q-5 is equipped with the HIGH FIX radar and
imported navigation/attack systems. The Q-5 is used mainly to assist ground
forces with air strikes. This derivative of the J-6 fighter originated in 1958
as a Shenyang design but was later assigned to Nanchang. A small number of Q-5
have been modified to carry nuclear weapons. The aircraft is considered the
equal to similar western strike aircraft such as the Douglas Skyhawk, and
French Etendard.
SHENYANG
J-6 (MiG-19 FARMER)
MANUFACTURED BY: SHENYANG AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA CHENGDU AIRCRAFT INDUSTRIAL CORP. TYPE - FIGHTERCREW - ONE PILOT OFFICERARM - SIX HARD POINTS - THREE ON EACH WING TWO 3O MM CANNON RANGE - 425 MILES WING SPAN - 26.5 FT.LENGTH - 42.9 FT.HEIGHT - 12 FT.WEIGHT - 20,000 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING WP-6GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMINSPEED - 900 MPH OR MACH 1.4 AT ALTITUDE
The F-6 is the Chinese version of the MiG-19,
which as of the mid-1990s was still in production in China. The PLAAF has over
3,000 of these maneuverable daylight fighters. The J-6 was thought to be an
obsolete aircraft but recent reviews of PLAAF tactics show that the J-6 can be
used to ambush and defeat much more capable machines due to its great close in
air combat flight performance. The use of J-6 jets by Pakistan against more
capable Indian jet fighters in the recent clashes over Kashmir shows that the
J-6 is a formidable air to air foe in close in dog fighting.
It is a testimony to this capable air plane
that the infamous Col. Toon of the North Vietnamese air force used the J-6 to
down 12 US aircraft. In fact, China opted to cease production of the Mach two
J-7 (MiG-21 variant) in favor of producing more J-6 jets.
The J-6, which began flight tests in 1958, was
China's first supersonic jet fighter. The F-6 has six attachment points for
external stores. The outboard wing stations can carry a 550 pound bomb or a 760
or 400 liter drop tank or the CAA-1b air to air missile. The inboard wing
stations can carry practice bombs or rocket pods with either 8 x 57mm, 16 x 57mm,
or 7 x 90mm rockets.
MORE SOFTWAR LINKS
THE FULL STORY ON THE CHINESE SUNBURN MISSILE!
·
CHINESE MISSILE PAGE
·
CHINESE AIR/SEA STRIKE MISSILES PAGE
·
RUSSIAN MISSILES SOLD TO CHINA
·
RETURN to SOFTWAR
All content COPYRIGHT SOFTWAR (C)
2005. Any reproduction or use of content herein must be approved by SOFTWAR.
MAKER: CAC-1 (FORMER CHENDU CAIC), CHINA
TYPE: SUPERSONIC LIGHT FIGHTER
LENGTH: 45.3 FEET
SPAN: 30.9 FEET
RANGE: 900 MILES
HEIGHT: 16.3 FEET
WEIGHT: 28,000 POUNDS MAX
ENGINE: ONE KLIMOV RD-93 TURBOFAN
TOP SPEED: MACH 1.6 AT ALTITUDE
WEAPON LOAD: I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
SD-10, PL-10, PL12
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
The FC-1 has its roots in the now defunct Super-7 program which fell apart after he Tiananmen Square demonstrations were put down by the PRC. FC-1 development continued under the MiG design bureau using data from the rejected MiG-33 strike fighter.
The FC-1 has 7 stores stations - four under the wing, two on the wing-tips and one under the fuselage. Fixed weapon is a 23-mm inner cannon hidden inside fuselage.
In addition to the PL-8 short-range infrared-guided air-to-air missile, which was derived from Israeli Rafael Python-3 technology, the FC-1 could also carry SD-10 medium-range missile. It may also be fitted with indigenously developed PL-11 or PL-12 medium-range AAM for BVR combat.
CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE FC-1 ON NEWSMAX.COM
For ground attack missions, the FC-1 will carry laser-guided bombs, YJ-8K anti-ship missile, as well as various unguided bombs and rockets.
The FC-1 is favored by the PLA Navy aviation branch but not by the PLAAF itself which wants the more capable J-10 strike fighter to replace aging MiG-21 and MiG-19 designs. Pakistan has funded most of the FC-1 development and may purchase up to 150 of the fighters if it meets the Pakistani Air Force requirements.
J-10 STRIKE FIGHTER
MAKER: CHENGDU CAIC, CHINA
TYPE: SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 47.4 FEET
SPAN: 28.5 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES
HEIGHT: 15.5 FEET
WEIGHT: 21,500 POUNDS EMPTY
ENGINE: ONE LYULKA SATURN AL-31F TURBOFAN
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.2 AT ALTITUDE
WEAPON LOAD: 9,900 POUNDS
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73, R-77, PL-10, PL12
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
The J-10 has 11 stores stations - six under the wing and five under the fuselage.
The inner wing and centre fuselage stations are plumped to carry external fuel tanks.
Fixed weapon is a 23-mm inner cannon hidden inside fuselage.
In addition to the PL-8 short-range infrared-guided air-to-air missile, which was derived from Israeli
Rafael Python-3 technology, the J-10 could also carry Russian Vympel R-73 (AA-11) short-range and
R-77 (AA-12) medium-range missiles carried by Chinese Flankers. It may also be fitted with indigenously
developed PL-11 or PL-12 medium-range AAM for BVR combat.
For ground attack missions, the J-10 will carry laser-guided bombs, YJ-8K anti-ship missile, as well as
various unguided bombs and rockets. The KH-31 ramjet-powered anti-radiation missile may also be carried by the J-10.
CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE KH-31 KRYPTON MISSILE
SU-30 STRIKE FIGHTER
MAKER: SUKHOI, RUSSIA
TYPE: SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 71.9 FEET
SPAN: 47.8 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES
HEIGHT: 15.5 FEET
WEIGHT: 85,300 POUNDS MAX
ENGINE: TWO LYULKA SATURN AL-31F TURBOFAN
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.2 AT ALTITUDE
WEAPON LOAD: 17,600 POUNDS ON 12 HARDPOINTS
30 MM CANNON
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73, R-77, PL-10, PL12
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
The PLA SU-30 MKK is equipped with the Tikhomirov NIIP N001VE radar which can
range up to 90-110 km in counter-air mode, 70-80km against ground targets and
200-250 km against large ships. The MKK2 version is possibly equipped with the
Phazotron Zhuk-M-S which has a 140km in counter-air mode, and 300km against large ships.
The SU-30 can be equipped with the Kupol M400 side-looking radar pod that can
control up to 10 fighters. The MKK3 is equipped with a Tikomirov “Panda,” radar
that has a 190 km counter air mode or may be equipped with the new version of Zhuk-M-S.
The SU-30 is equipped with an extensive electronics suite including the OLS-30 IRST
(Infrared Search and Track) system that has a 80-100km range. SU-30 pilots are
equipped with the Surya-K Helmet Sight for close in air-to-air combat. SU-30 also have
the Sapsan-E ir/laser targeting pod for ground attack, a APK-9 data link pod for Kh-59ME missile, A-737 satnav system, the L-150 Pastel RWR Radar Warning system, a 96x chaff/flare
dispenser, the Sorbitsya ECM and the Spektr data link.
J-11
SU-27SK FLANKER
SUKHOI SU-27SK "FLANKER"
EXPORT VERSION SOLD TO CHINA AND VIETNAM
MANUFACTURED BY: SUKHOI STATE DESIGN BUREAU
MOSCOW, RUSSIA
TYPE - SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 71.9 FEET
SPAN: 48.2 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES (WITHOUT AIR REFUEL)
HEIGHT: 19.4 FEET
WEIGHT: 50,000 POUNDS
ENGINE: 2 AF-35 AFTERBURNING TURBO FANS
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.3
WEAPON LOAD: 13,670 POUNDS
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73 AND R-77
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AIR LAUNCHED VERSION SS-N-22 SUNBURN
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
SU-30 VERSION EQUIPPED FOR NUCLEAR WEAPONS DELIVERY
SUKHOI SU-34 "FLANKER" TWIN SEAT STRIKE VERSION OF SU-27
ZVEZDA KH-31 SUPER-SONIC MISSILES IN RED (CENTER FOREGROUND)
The
J-11 is the most advanced fighter currently in service with the PLAAF. The J-11
is roughly equal in performance and capability to the western aircraft that
face it including the F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon and the U.S. Navy F-18
Hornet.
The
PLAAF currently operates 78 single-seat Flanker fighters and four twin seat
training versions. PLAAF factories signed a deal with Sukhoi to assemble 150 of
these advanced fighters and build under license another 350.
China
has also concluded a deal to purchase up to two hundred SU-30 two seat long range strike
bomber versions of the FLANKER family from Sukhoi. The first thirty SU-30 fighters
were delivered to the PLAAF in the fall of 2000 and there are an estimated 76 in
active service. The PLAAF SU-30 bombers are equipped to carry Chinese made
nuclear weapons.
The Chinese military is outfitting its Russian-made Su-30 fighter bombers with C-801 anti-ship cruise missiles.
The upgrade will give China's air force a major new strike capability against ships. The C-801 is modeled after the French Exocet anti-ship missile.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW DETAILS ON THE C-801 CRUISE MISSILE
China
United Airline
SAR
SPY PLANE
CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE CHINESE SPY PLANE
TU-154M
MANUFACTURED BY: TUPOLEV STATE DESIGN BUREAU
MOSCOW, RUSSIA
CREW: THREE PILOT/COPILOT/FLG ENGINEER
TYPE: SAR RADAR SURVEILLANCE (RADAR DOME ON BELLY)
CARGO: AIRLINER NORMAL SEATING 180
LENGTH: 157.1 FEET
SPAN: 123.2 FEET
RANGE: 3280 MILES
HEIGHT: 37.4 FEET
WEIGHT: 199077 POUNDS
ENGINE: 3 KUZNETSOV NK-8-2 TURBO FANS
TOP SPEED: 625 MILES AN HOUR
Defense
analysts confirmed that the so-called "civil" aircraft is actually a
Chinese Air Force spy plane equipped with a sophisticated radar and
communications equipment. China United Airlines B-4138 spy plane is a
modified Tupolev TU-154 civil transport equipped with a tub like SAR radar dome
on the belly and several antenna domes on the rear. B-4138 can use its
advanced SAR radar to locate ground vehicles, ships, tanks and even troops from
hundreds of miles away from the battlefield.
LORAL SAR radar export for China
In 1996 Loral Defense
President Jerald Lindfelt wrote Ron Brown seeking export of SAR radars directly
to a Chinese weapons lab.
1996 LORAL
SAR LETTER TO RON BROWN
BOEING
737
FORMER CHINA UNITED 737 NOW A PLAAF C3 PLANE
MANUFACTURED BY: BOEING AIRCRAFT CORP. USA TYPE - FLYING HQ/C3/MILITARY CARGO/TROOP TRANSPORTCREW - TWO PILOT/CO-PILOT OFFICERCARGO - 126 PASSENGERS - 150 PARATROOPERS 12,800 LBS OF CARGORANGE - 2,600 MILES WING SPAN - 94.8 FT.LENGTH - 109.6 FT.HEIGHT - 36.5 FT.WEIGHT - 124,500 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO CFM56-3C-1 TURBOFAN GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMINSPEED - 566 MILES PER HOUR
In 2000 Boeing concluded an agreement with
China United Airlines to sell ten Boeing 737-300 transports. SOFTWAR has
confirmed that the 737 transports are now being used by the PLAAF as troop and
cargo military jets. One 737 has been modified by Xian Aviation into a command post
for the Chinese Army. The 737 is also a prime airframe for the PLAAF to use in
converted roles such as airborne radar or electronic warfare planes.
MAKER: CHENGDU CAIC, CHINA
TYPE: SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 47.4 FEET
SPAN: 28.5 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES
HEIGHT: 15.5 FEET
WEIGHT: 21,500 POUNDS EMPTY
ENGINE: ONE LYULKA SATURN AL-31F TURBOFAN
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.2 AT ALTITUDE
WEAPON LOAD: 9,900 POUNDS
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73, R-77, PL-10, PL12
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
The J-10 has 11 stores stations - six under the wing and five under the fuselage. The inner wing and centre fuselage stations are plumped to carry external fuel tanks. Fixed weapon is a 23-mm inner cannon hidden inside fuselage.
In addition to the PL-8 short-range infrared-guided air-to-air missile, which was derived from Israeli Rafael Python-3 technology, the J-10 could also carry Russian Vympel R-73 (AA-11) short-range and R-77 (AA-12) medium-range missiles carried by Chinese Flankers. It may also be fitted with indigenously developed PL-11 or PL-12 medium-range AAM for BVR combat.
For ground attack missions, the J-10 will carry laser-guided bombs, YJ-8K anti-ship missile, as well as various unguided bombs and rockets. The KH-31 ramjet-powered anti-radiation missile may also be carried by the J-10.
CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE KH-31 KRYPTON MISSILE
SU-30 STRIKE FIGHTER
MAKER: SUKHOI, RUSSIA
TYPE: SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 71.9 FEET
SPAN: 47.8 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES
HEIGHT: 15.5 FEET
WEIGHT: 85,300 POUNDS MAX
ENGINE: TWO LYULKA SATURN AL-31F TURBOFAN
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.2 AT ALTITUDE
WEAPON LOAD: 17,600 POUNDS ON 12 HARDPOINTS
30 MM CANNON
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73, R-77, PL-10, PL12
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
The PLA SU-30 MKK is equipped with the Tikhomirov NIIP N001VE radar which can
range up to 90-110 km in counter-air mode, 70-80km against ground targets and
200-250 km against large ships. The MKK2 version is possibly equipped with the
Phazotron Zhuk-M-S which has a 140km in counter-air mode, and 300km against large ships.
The SU-30 can be equipped with the Kupol M400 side-looking radar pod that can
control up to 10 fighters. The MKK3 is equipped with a Tikomirov “Panda,” radar
that has a 190 km counter air mode or may be equipped with the new version of Zhuk-M-S.
The SU-30 is equipped with an extensive electronics suite including the OLS-30 IRST
(Infrared Search and Track) system that has a 80-100km range. SU-30 pilots are
equipped with the Surya-K Helmet Sight for close in air-to-air combat. SU-30 also have
the Sapsan-E ir/laser targeting pod for ground attack, a APK-9 data link pod for Kh-59ME missile, A-737 satnav system, the L-150 Pastel RWR Radar Warning system, a 96x chaff/flare
dispenser, the Sorbitsya ECM and the Spektr data link.
J-11
SU-27SK FLANKER
MAKER: SUKHOI, RUSSIA
TYPE: SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 71.9 FEET
SPAN: 47.8 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES
HEIGHT: 15.5 FEET
WEIGHT: 85,300 POUNDS MAX
ENGINE: TWO LYULKA SATURN AL-31F TURBOFAN
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.2 AT ALTITUDE
WEAPON LOAD: 17,600 POUNDS ON 12 HARDPOINTS
30 MM CANNON
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73, R-77, PL-10, PL12
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
The PLA SU-30 MKK is equipped with the Tikhomirov NIIP N001VE radar which can range up to 90-110 km in counter-air mode, 70-80km against ground targets and 200-250 km against large ships. The MKK2 version is possibly equipped with the Phazotron Zhuk-M-S which has a 140km in counter-air mode, and 300km against large ships. The SU-30 can be equipped with the Kupol M400 side-looking radar pod that can control up to 10 fighters. The MKK3 is equipped with a Tikomirov “Panda,” radar that has a 190 km counter air mode or may be equipped with the new version of Zhuk-M-S.
The SU-30 is equipped with an extensive electronics suite including the OLS-30 IRST (Infrared Search and Track) system that has a 80-100km range. SU-30 pilots are equipped with the Surya-K Helmet Sight for close in air-to-air combat. SU-30 also have the Sapsan-E ir/laser targeting pod for ground attack, a APK-9 data link pod for Kh-59ME missile, A-737 satnav system, the L-150 Pastel RWR Radar Warning system, a 96x chaff/flare dispenser, the Sorbitsya ECM and the Spektr data link.
SUKHOI SU-27SK "FLANKER"
EXPORT VERSION SOLD TO CHINA AND VIETNAM
MANUFACTURED BY: SUKHOI STATE DESIGN BUREAU
MOSCOW, RUSSIA
TYPE - SUPERSONIC STRIKE FIGHTER
LENGTH: 71.9 FEET
SPAN: 48.2 FEET
RANGE: 1,900 MILES (WITHOUT AIR REFUEL)
HEIGHT: 19.4 FEET
WEIGHT: 50,000 POUNDS
ENGINE: 2 AF-35 AFTERBURNING TURBO FANS
TOP SPEED: MACH 2.3
WEAPON LOAD: 13,670 POUNDS
I/R AND RADAR HOMING AIR TO AIR MISSILES
R-73 AND R-77
LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AIR LAUNCHED VERSION SS-N-22 SUNBURN
AS-17 KRYPTON ANTI-RADAR MISSILE (KH-31)
SU-30 VERSION EQUIPPED FOR NUCLEAR WEAPONS DELIVERY
SUKHOI SU-34 "FLANKER" TWIN SEAT STRIKE VERSION OF SU-27
ZVEZDA KH-31 SUPER-SONIC MISSILES IN RED (CENTER FOREGROUND)
The
J-11 is the most advanced fighter currently in service with the PLAAF. The J-11
is roughly equal in performance and capability to the western aircraft that
face it including the F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon and the U.S. Navy F-18
Hornet.
The
PLAAF currently operates 78 single-seat Flanker fighters and four twin seat
training versions. PLAAF factories signed a deal with Sukhoi to assemble 150 of
these advanced fighters and build under license another 350.
China has also concluded a deal to purchase up to two hundred SU-30 two seat long range strike bomber versions of the FLANKER family from Sukhoi. The first thirty SU-30 fighters were delivered to the PLAAF in the fall of 2000 and there are an estimated 76 in active service. The PLAAF SU-30 bombers are equipped to carry Chinese made nuclear weapons.
The Chinese military is outfitting its Russian-made Su-30 fighter bombers with C-801 anti-ship cruise missiles.
The upgrade will give China's air force a major new strike capability against ships. The C-801 is modeled after the French Exocet anti-ship missile.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW DETAILS ON THE C-801 CRUISE MISSILE
China United Airline
SAR SPY PLANE
CLICK HERE TO READ ABOUT THE CHINESE SPY PLANE
TU-154M
MANUFACTURED BY: TUPOLEV STATE DESIGN BUREAU
MOSCOW, RUSSIA
CREW: THREE PILOT/COPILOT/FLG ENGINEER
TYPE: SAR RADAR SURVEILLANCE (RADAR DOME ON BELLY)
CARGO: AIRLINER NORMAL SEATING 180
LENGTH: 157.1 FEET
SPAN: 123.2 FEET
RANGE: 3280 MILES
HEIGHT: 37.4 FEET
WEIGHT: 199077 POUNDS
ENGINE: 3 KUZNETSOV NK-8-2 TURBO FANS
TOP SPEED: 625 MILES AN HOUR
Defense analysts confirmed that the so-called "civil" aircraft is actually a Chinese Air Force spy plane equipped with a sophisticated radar and communications equipment. China United Airlines B-4138 spy plane is a modified Tupolev TU-154 civil transport equipped with a tub like SAR radar dome on the belly and several antenna domes on the rear. B-4138 can use its advanced SAR radar to locate ground vehicles, ships, tanks and even troops from hundreds of miles away from the battlefield.
LORAL SAR radar export for China
In 1996 Loral Defense
President Jerald Lindfelt wrote Ron Brown seeking export of SAR radars directly
to a Chinese weapons lab.
1996 LORAL SAR LETTER TO RON BROWN
FORMER CHINA UNITED 737 NOW A PLAAF C3 PLANE
According to a U.S. government report on the
Chinese military - CHINA UNITED is actually owned and
operated by the PLAAF.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT CHINA UNITED AND BOEING 737 AIRLINERS FOR THE PLAAF
ILYUSHIN
IL-76 CANDID
MANUFACTURED BY: ILYUSHIN DESIGN BUREAU, RUSSIA TYPE - MILITARY CARGO/TROOP TRANSPORTCREW - FOUR PILOT/CO-PILOT TWO FLIGHT ENGINEERSCARGO - 200 PARATROOPERS 132,160 LBS OF CARGORANGE - 2,160 MILES WING SPAN - 165.6 FT.LENGTH - 174.4 FT.HEIGHT - 47.3 FT.WEIGHT - 462,966 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - FOUR PS-90A TURBOFAN GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMINSPEED - 560 MILES PER HOUR
According to it's own website, the PLAAF owned China United Airlines operates a
small fleet of Russian made Ilyushin IL-76 jet transports. The CUA IL-76 transports
are actually operated by the PLAAF 13th Air Division based at Wuhan, Hubei Province
and the PLAAF 34th Air Division based at Nanyuan AFB, Beijing.
The IL-76
four-engine jet is the current front-line PLAAF military transport and the
Chinese civil version is frequently armed with a cannon located in a rear
turret. PLAAF IL-76 transports dropped paratroopers, tanks and artillery
directly on to the battlefield during the fall 2000 Chinese military exercises.
KJ-2000 MODIFIED IL-76 PLAAF AWACS PLANE
MiG-31
FOX HOUND
MANUFACTURED BY: MIKOYAN AVIATION NPO (MiG), RUSSIA TYPE - FIGHTER/INTERCEPTOR/ANTI-SATELLITECREW - TWO IN TANDEM PILOT/WEAPONS OFFICERARM - FOUR HARD POINTS - TWO ON EACH WING, FOUR BELLY HARD POINTS - TYPICAL ANTI-AIR MISSION FOUR R-33 AAMRANGE - 1,630 MILES INTERNAL - HAS AIR REFUELING CAPABILITYWING SPAN - 44.1 FT.LENGTH - 74.5 FT.HEIGHT - 20.2 FT.WEIGHT - 90,000 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING SOLOVIEV D-30GGUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONALSPEED - 1,900 MPH OR MACH 2.8 AT ALTITUDE
UNCONFIRMED**** Russia and China concluded an
agreement to transfer twenty four MiG-31 FOXHOUND fighters to China in 1992.
The agreement included a deal to manufacture up to 200 more inside China. The
transfer cannot be confirmed in that NO MiG-31 aircraft have appeared in the
PLAAF inventory at this time. U.S. intelligence sources indicate that the
MiG-31 may be used by the PLAAF in an anti-satellite role by firing a
specialized missile.
SHENYANG
J-8 FINBACK
MANUFACTURED BY: SHENYANG AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA TYPE - INTERCEPTORCREW - ONE PILOT OFFICERARM - SIX WING HARD POINTS ONE BELLY HARD POINT TWO 30 MM CANNON RANGE - 500 MILES WING SPAN - 30.7 FT.LENGTH - 67.4 FT.HEIGHT - 17.9 FT.WEIGHT - 33,700 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING WP13AGUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMIN IZMRUD AIR TO AIR RADARSPEED - 1500 MPH OR MACH 2.1 AT ALTITUDE
The Shenyang J-8 is the first PLAAF produced
fighter jet. The J-8 is based on a twin-engine design of the Russian made
MiG-21/J-7 and is equipped with a Izmrud intercept radar. The J-8 is considered
a classic "interceptor" in that it is not designed for dog-fighting
with superior western fighter jets but is intended to intercept long range
bombers in a defensive role. The J-8 is comparable in performance and specifications
to the Sukhoi SU-15 FLAGON.
SHENYANG (CHENGDU) J-7 (MIG-21 FISHBED)
MANUFACTURED BY: SHENYANG AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA CHENGDU AIRCRAFT INDUSTRIAL CORP. TYPE - FIGHTERCREW - ONE PILOT OFFICERARM - FOUR HARD POINTS - TWO ON EACH WING, ONE BELLY HARD POINT TWO 30 MM CANNON RANGE - 400 MILES WING SPAN - 23.5 FT.LENGTH - 45.7 FT.HEIGHT - 13.4 FT.WEIGHT - 19,580 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - ONE AFTERBURNING WP7B(BM)GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMINSPEED - 1500 MPH OR MACH 2.1 AT ALTITUDE
The Chinese made J-7 is an advanced version of
the formidable MiG-21 FISHBED. J-7 design improvements include a cranked-arrow
wing for better low and high speed performance, two extra hard points on each
wing for weapons, improved avionics and upgraded weapons systems. J-7 fighters
are considered to be capable dog-fighters and can press close in air combat
with the best western aircraft.
The J-7 is not the front-line fighter that the PLAAF
would prefer to replace its aging fleet of J-6 FARMER jets. However, nearly 500
J-7 fighters are in service with the PLAAF and the PLAN. Both export and
domestic J-7 jets are fitted with a wide variety of western avionics including
a GEC-Marconi Avionics HUDWAC (head-up display and weapon aiming computer) and
GARMIN GPS bombing navigation systems.
XIAN FH-7 - SUPERSONIC NUCLEAR STRIKE BOMBER
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON THE HONG 7
MANUFACTURED BY: XIAN AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA TYPE - SUPERSONIC STRIKE BOMBERCREW - TWO IN TANDEM PILOT/WEAPONS OFFICERARM - SIX HARD POINTS - THREE ON EACH WING, ONE BELLY HARD POINT AND WING-TIP HARD POINTS FOR AIR TO AIR MISSILES TOTAL 14,000 LB. EXTERNAL STORES INCLUDING C.802 MISSILES, CONVENTIONAL OR NUCLEAR FREE-FALL BOMBSRANGE - 1,900 MILES WING SPAN - 41.65 FT.LENGTH - 73.22 FT.HEIGHT - 21.56 FT.WEIGHT - 62,000 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING WS-9 (ROLLS ROYCE SPEY BUILT ON LICENSE)GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL INERTIAL AND SAR RADAR - ADVANCED VERSIONS TO BE EQUIPPED WITH LASER DESIGNATOR AND FLIRSPEED - 750 MPH OR MACH 1.7 AT ALTITUDE
The FH-7 (FBC-1 export version) is a twin
engine, swept-wing, super-sonic two seat, all weather attack bomber, equipped
with American GPS bombing - navigation and powered by licensed copies of the
British Rolls Royce Spey engine. The all weather FBC-1 ROCKWELL GPS bombing
system will eventually be upgraded with Chinese made Synthetic Aperture Radar
(SAR) and an infra-red night vision pod.
Chinese engineers bragged that the FBC-1 was
designed with CAD (computer aided design) techniques on U.S. built super
computers. The computers were provided through the China Flight Test
Establishment at Xian University.
Nanchang Q-5/A-5 FANTAN
MANUFACTURED BY: NANCHANG AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA TYPE - STRIKE BOMBERCREW - ONE PILOT OFFICERARM - SIX HARD POINTS - THREE ON EACH WING FOUR BELLY HARD POINTS 4,400 POUNDS OF BOMBS AND ROCKETS TWO 23 MM CANNONRANGE - 400 MILES WING SPAN - 31.8 FT.LENGTH - 54.8 FT.HEIGHT - 14.8 FT.WEIGHT - 26,400 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING WP-6GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMIN HIGH FIX RADAR/ ALR-1 LASER DESIGNATOR SPEED - 700 MPH
The Q-5 is equipped with the HIGH FIX radar and
imported navigation/attack systems. The Q-5 is used mainly to assist ground
forces with air strikes. This derivative of the J-6 fighter originated in 1958
as a Shenyang design but was later assigned to Nanchang. A small number of Q-5
have been modified to carry nuclear weapons. The aircraft is considered the
equal to similar western strike aircraft such as the Douglas Skyhawk, and
French Etendard.
SHENYANG J-6 (MiG-19 FARMER)
MANUFACTURED BY: SHENYANG AIRCRAFT CORP., PEOPLES REPUBLIC of CHINA CHENGDU AIRCRAFT INDUSTRIAL CORP. TYPE - FIGHTERCREW - ONE PILOT OFFICERARM - SIX HARD POINTS - THREE ON EACH WING TWO 3O MM CANNON RANGE - 425 MILES WING SPAN - 26.5 FT.LENGTH - 42.9 FT.HEIGHT - 12 FT.WEIGHT - 20,000 POUNDS TAKE OFFENGINE - TWO AFTERBURNING WP-6GUIDANCE - GPS SUPPLIED BY ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL/GARMINSPEED - 900 MPH OR MACH 1.4 AT ALTITUDE
The F-6 is the Chinese version of the MiG-19,
which as of the mid-1990s was still in production in China. The PLAAF has over
3,000 of these maneuverable daylight fighters. The J-6 was thought to be an
obsolete aircraft but recent reviews of PLAAF tactics show that the J-6 can be
used to ambush and defeat much more capable machines due to its great close in
air combat flight performance. The use of J-6 jets by Pakistan against more
capable Indian jet fighters in the recent clashes over Kashmir shows that the
J-6 is a formidable air to air foe in close in dog fighting.
It is a testimony to this capable air plane
that the infamous Col. Toon of the North Vietnamese air force used the J-6 to
down 12 US aircraft. In fact, China opted to cease production of the Mach two
J-7 (MiG-21 variant) in favor of producing more J-6 jets.
The J-6, which began flight tests in 1958, was
China's first supersonic jet fighter. The F-6 has six attachment points for
external stores. The outboard wing stations can carry a 550 pound bomb or a 760
or 400 liter drop tank or the CAA-1b air to air missile. The inboard wing
stations can carry practice bombs or rocket pods with either 8 x 57mm, 16 x 57mm,
or 7 x 90mm rockets.
MORE SOFTWAR LINKS
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RUSSIAN MISSILES SOLD TO CHINA
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