New generation of fighter jets on horizon
- Source: Global Times
- [02:36 November 10 2009]
- Comments
According to Dai, the development of the 4th generation fighter shows the progress of Chinese Air Force's modernization.
"America is already equipped with 4th generation fighter jets. It clearly shows the direction of the development of the air force. China is developing the 4th generation fighters, which means that China's weapons are developing steadily but also indicates China lags behind in the field," Dai added.
China-made third-generation fighter J-10's performance is equivalent to US F-16 fighter, deputy commander He said in the interview.
"J-10's max weapon load is up to six tons with 11 pylons and its shortest take-off distance is only 350 meters," he said.
J-10 performing at National Day military parade will be showcased in an air show in Beijing tomorrow to mark the 60th anniversary of the founding of the PLA air force, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
"J-10 is China's first combat aircraft with independent intellectual property rights, equivalent to foreign 3rd generation fighters in terms of performance. J-10 will continue to be improved," Zhang Jigao, deputy chief designer of J-10 said.
Improved Design program of J-10 has been in full swing and its more advanced sister model will be available in the near future, an insider told Hong Kong-based newspaper Wen Wei Po.
