The Q-5, J-7, J-8 and older PLAAF aircraft
- Thread starter adeptitus
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New serial pattern for the J-8-series?? ... no longer on the fuselage but now on its tail?
It's an old plane but it still looks elegant. I believe all the J-8II currently in service are either J-8F or have been upgraded to the F standard. The F version only came out in 2009, so it means that they still have at least 10-15 years of service ahead. They would serve as a nice complement to the fleet of 3rd and 4th generation fighters. They would still have some uses as a high-speed interceptor and as a reconnaissance plane, ready to expel any intruders that come too close to China's airspace. RIP 81192.
China is not in a state of war, these older planes are good for airspace patrol since they are likely cheaper to fly and more durable. No point using up expensive engine and airframe hours.
Documentary on J-8.
This guy clocked over 5000 hours on J-7s!
