Chengdu JJ-7

Chengdu Aircraft Corporation · China · first flew 1985 · fighter

The JJ-7 (export FT-7) is Chengdu's tandem two-seat conversion trainer derived from the J-7 delta-wing fighter, produced to give operators a type-specific lead-in for single-seat variants.

Recognition (WEFT)

WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.

Spot it by:

• Tandem two-seat delta with clearly raised rear cockpit and bulged spine
• Twin canopy hoods on a lengthened forward fuselage
• Same delta planform as J-7 but unmistakably two-seat from any angle

Bulged spine and distinctly stepped tandem canopies immediately distinguish it from single-seat J-7/MiG-21 family members. The forward fuselage is noticeably longer than the single-seater. Delta wing and single ventral fin remain unchanged.

Specifications

• The Chengdu JJ-7 has a length of 14.88 m (49 ft).
• It has a wingspan of 7.15 m (23 ft).
• Its maximum speed is 1800 km/h (1118 mph).
• Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Development began in the mid-1980s in response to PLAAF and export-customer demand for a dedicated J-7 trainer; state certification was awarded on 4 February 1988. The FT-7 export designation covered sales to Bangladesh, Myanmar, Pakistan and Zimbabwe among others. Guns were deleted and a twin 23 mm cannon pod could be carried on the belly centreline.

Variants

FT-7 is the primary export label; minor avionics differences exist between batches. No other major sub-variants.

Where you'll see it

Operated by the PLAAF as JJ-7 and widely exported as FT-7; gives pilots hands-on experience of the J-7's high delta-wing landing characteristics before solo type conversion.

Related aircraft

• Chengdu J-10
• Chengdu J-20
• Boeing (GAF) F/A-18B Hornet
• British Aerospace Harrier II GR.5
• GAIC JJ-7 (FT-7)
• IAR 99 Șoim

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