Yes, the one in the static display is a prototype or Batch 01 LRIP aircraft and IMO the only one so far confirmed with WS-10 whereas all flying J-15Ts are Batch 02 and are indeed again/still (?) AL-31F powered.
J-15 carrier fighter thread
- Thread starter Jeff Head
- Start date
Yes, the one in the static display is a prototype or Batch 01 LRIP aircraft and IMO the only one so far confirmed with WS-10 whereas all flying J-15Ts are Batch 02 and are indeed again/still (?) AL-31F powered.
Indeed. I hope we see WS-10s replace AL-31Fs in the nearer future. Do we have solid information on why WS-10s are not the main engines for these J-15s? There was the responsiveness issue suggestion but that was fixed, what is preventing a full switch?
what i have heard from my source. using AL-31F is purely PLAN decision.. WS-10 is ready for sea environment since 2022. i believe PLAN went with the flow as they already have 80+ jets with AL-31F..
but J-15T with WS-10 public display indicate, the time has finally come.. for type 003 and beyond. J-15T will use WS-10 engines.
A few more images from Zhuhai: J-15T, J-15D, etc.
I wonder how those guys from Sukhoi feel seeing that J-15T.
Probably a combination of "that one is still using Al-31s" followed by "I wish our Flankers had AESAs".
Makes sense for all J15s on the same carrier to use the same engine. If the OG J15s are using AL-31 it makes sense for the J15Ts to use it too so as to not have 2 maintenance & supply chains on a single ship.
If I am right the J15Ts on CV16 & 17 will have AL-31 and on CV18 more likely WS-10.
CV-18 will also have J-35/KJ-600 powered by domestic engines so makes sense..
Nice image from Zhuhai.
