J10 Fighter Plane Specifications

Introduction to the J10 Fighter Plane

The J10, also known as the Jian-10 or Fighter-10, is a third-generation, multirole fighter aircraft designed and manufactured by the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The J10 is China’s first domestically developed multirole fighter and has been in service since 2004. This aircraft represents a significant milestone in China’s aerospace industry, demonstrating the country’s capability to design, develop, and produce advanced military aircraft.

Design and Development

The development of the J10 began in the 1980s, with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) providing significant assistance, particularly in the design phase. The J10’s design is influenced by the Israeli Lavi fighter project, which was canceled in the 1980s. China’s collaboration with Israel allowed for the incorporation of advanced technologies and design concepts into the J10. The first prototype of the J10 made its maiden flight in 1998, marking the beginning of a lengthy testing and evaluation phase.

Specifications and Performance

The J10 is powered by a single Russo-Sino Saturn AL-31FN turbofan engine, which provides a thrust of approximately 12,500 kgf (123 kN). This engine enables the J10 to achieve high speeds and maintain excellent maneuverability. The aircraft’s aerodynamic design, featuring a delta wing and canards, contributes to its stability and agility. Key specifications of the J10 include: - Length: 15.5 meters (50.85 feet) - Wingspan: 9.75 meters (32 feet) - Height: 5.4 meters (17.72 feet) - Empty Weight: Approximately 9,750 kg (21,500 lbs) - Maximum Takeoff Weight: 19,277 kg (42,500 lbs) - Speed: Mach 1.8+ (over 2,175 km/h or 1,351 mph) - Service Ceiling: 18,000 meters (59,055 feet) - Range: Over 3,000 km (1,864 miles)

Armament and Avionics

The J10 is equipped with a 23mm cannon and has eleven hardpoints for carrying a variety of missiles and bombs, including: - PL-8 and PL-12 air-to-air missiles - C-801 and C-802 anti-ship missiles - unguided rockets and bombs The aircraft’s avionics include a phased array radar, infrared search and track systems, and advanced communication and navigation systems, making it capable of performing air-to-air, air-to-ground, and reconnaissance missions.

Operational History and Variants

The J10 entered operational service with the PLAAF in 2004. Several variants of the J10 have been developed, including: - J10A: The initial production variant - J10S: A twin-seat version for training and combat roles - J10B: An upgraded version with improved avionics and radar capabilities - J10C: The latest variant, featuring advanced radar and communication systems, and compatibility with more advanced missiles

🚀 Note: The exact specifications and performance characteristics of the J10 variants can vary, and some details may be classified or subject to change as the aircraft continues to evolve.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

The J10 represents a significant achievement in China’s military aviation development, showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in designing and manufacturing advanced fighter aircraft. With its multirole capabilities and advanced avionics, the J10 plays a crucial role in the PLAAF’s modernization efforts. As China continues to develop new technologies and upgrade existing platforms, the J10 and its variants are expected to remain a vital part of China’s air power for years to come.