J-10 Thread IV
- Thread starter Jeff Head
- Start date
I'm expecting more interest and sales for this jet in the future, and that got me wondering. Now more people are interested. Is there a block D version in the works? I haven't been on this thread in over a year, and a quick Google search is giving me mixed messages.
IMO whats the point of a D variant, I can't really think of anything to add to the J-10. With WS-10 it has the best engine CAC can put in it, radar and weapon system as proven by last nights engagement should be top notch and it comes with integrated EW suite like any other advanced 4.5 gen
Thanks. I'm not knowledgeable in avionics and airframe, so I was also wondering what could be added if there were a potential Block D model.
In terms of structural improvements that couldn't be retrofitted to the existing air frames, they could add conformal weapon bays for AAMs and ARMs, more signature reduction measures, more cooling and electricity delivery capability. The WS-15 could be added too if they were really ambitious. The J-10D was rumored for years. I think there is a decent chance PLA evaluated the concept too. But with the J-20, it probably went to the way of the J-11D.
A fan CGI:
There's a price already?
No, I'm just saying such hypothetical pseudo stealth J-10 would likely cost about as much as a proper 5th gen. Refer to the silent eagle project
The UAE had the F-16 Block 60 developed for itself only. It still has the best ESM suite, engine and radar among all F-16 variants. It also has an integrated IRST and targeting pod unlike the other F-16s. Israel too has its own F-16 variant because of the US helicopter money. Custom navigation, a big self-defense jammer, domestic weapons, etc... Money is easy to spend when it is earned easily.
If the Gulf starts to invest in Chinese weapons a lot then we could see a J-10D or a single WS-15 VLO fighter.