That is a good question. Should China develop its own high-speed interceptor aircraft or not?
The J-8II was basically that. A dedicated interceptor. And the J-11, while it replaces it for most roles, it not an interceptor but a fighter.
It makes less sense for China to have interceptors than Russia I guess. Since the geography and disposition of threats is totally different.
But still something to consider if the threat situation changes and Chinese engine technology provides the necessary advancements.
The SR-71 was basically replaced in the reconnaissance role with satellites. That is why you do not see any modern high altitude reconnaissance platforms anymore. While cost of upkeep was an issue it was not the only one. And now that SpaceX has reduced the cost of launch a huge amount I think satellites will improve in capabilities faster than something like the SR-72 would provide. The U-2 has an advantage over the SR-71 in that it is basically a glider. Satellites typically are in low orbits and make high velocity passes over targets. The time between passes can be large, and the opposition might use these gaps to move without you being able to spot them. A high endurance glider like the U-2 can handle this task better i.e. provide a moving picture of the target. The SR-71 or mythical SR-72 would not.
The U-2 is finding itself replaced with robotic platforms like Global Hawk. China has Soar Dragon. Plus advanced reconnaissance satellites. So I do not see much chance of this niche being available to a platform like that of a successor to the J-8II.
I think the interceptor role is the only one which might still make sense.
The J-8II was basically that. A dedicated interceptor. And the J-11, while it replaces it for most roles, it not an interceptor but a fighter.
It makes less sense for China to have interceptors than Russia I guess. Since the geography and disposition of threats is totally different.
But still something to consider if the threat situation changes and Chinese engine technology provides the necessary advancements.
The SR-71 was basically replaced in the reconnaissance role with satellites. That is why you do not see any modern high altitude reconnaissance platforms anymore. While cost of upkeep was an issue it was not the only one. And now that SpaceX has reduced the cost of launch a huge amount I think satellites will improve in capabilities faster than something like the SR-72 would provide. The U-2 has an advantage over the SR-71 in that it is basically a glider. Satellites typically are in low orbits and make high velocity passes over targets. The time between passes can be large, and the opposition might use these gaps to move without you being able to spot them. A high endurance glider like the U-2 can handle this task better i.e. provide a moving picture of the target. The SR-71 or mythical SR-72 would not.
The U-2 is finding itself replaced with robotic platforms like Global Hawk. China has Soar Dragon. Plus advanced reconnaissance satellites. So I do not see much chance of this niche being available to a platform like that of a successor to the J-8II.
I think the interceptor role is the only one which might still make sense.
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