Non Minnie Chan scmp article related to the kj-600 has 1 sentence that claim a source says a 4th carrier will start construction this year.
I think 2 003 before moving on to 004. 003 compared to 004 is 052C compared to 052D. 004 is mass produced version.
J-15T yes but I'm thinking of the stealth one.Check the J-15 thread - latest rumors (seems credible considering the progress of the 003 production) suggest CATOBAR J-15s have gone into production
J-15T yes but I'm thinking of the stealth one.
When can we see first catapult launch from 003, 2024?
I think the problem with 003 is with it's fighter jets. It's taking too long. I'm not optimistic that it'll fly this year.
052C to 052D is upgrade because both are 052, C and D is only upgrade.003 compared to 004 is 052C compared to 052D
052C to 052D is upgrade because both are 052, C and D is only upgrade.
003 and 004 are vastly different that warrant the digit being stepped up.
I agree just think that catapult launching J-XY in 2024 would be very nice, even if it's a prototype.So you're saying J-15T isn't a fighter jet??
FC-31/J-XY probably reaches IOE and becomes part of the PLAN Carrier Air Wing (alongside J-15Ts, J-15Ds for EW, KJ-600 for AEW, and Z-18/20 for SAR/ASW) around the same time 003 gets commissioned. The PLAN doesn't need an all-stealth strike fighter jet carrier air wing, just look at the USN where they operate 4.5-generation Super Hornets alongside fifth-generation stealth F-35Cs.
I agree just think that catapult launching J-XY in 2024 would be very nice, even if it's a prototype.
None of the differences you mentioned deserves a new digit. One of the many example is J-7 produced from 1965 to 2013 with much more letters, more missile and radar upgrades, yet it was always J-7. It can not be compared with the jump to J-10.052D is vastly different than 052C. There's a 10 years gap between them. One is limited VLS + slanted launchers, the other is full VLS.