Xian JH-7 Flounder
Summary
| Category | Combat aircraft |
| Origin country | 🇨🇳 China |
| First flight | 14 December 1988 |
| Year of introduction | 1992 |
| Number produced | 270 units |
| Average unit price | $25 million |
Description
The Xian JH-7 Flounder is a twin-engine, supersonic military aircraft developed by China in the late 1980s. Designed to fulfill multiple roles, the JH-7 serves as a fighter-bomber, reconnaissance platform, and maritime strike aircraft. Its development was primarily driven by China's requirement for a versatile combat aircraft capable of conducting precision strikes and operating from different airstrips, including those on aircraft carriers. The JH-7 features advanced avionics and weapon systems, allowing it to effectively engage ground and naval targets. It has seen deployment within the People's Liberation Army Air Force and the Naval Aviation Force, contributing to China's aerial combat capabilities.
Technical specifications
| Version: JH-7 | |
|---|---|
| Crew | 1 pilot + 1 WSO |
| Operational range | 1648 km (1024 mi) |
| Maximum speed | 1808 km/h (1123 mph) |
| Wing area | 52.3 m² (563.0 sqft) |
| Wingspan | 12.8 m (42.0 ft) |
| Height | 6.2 m (20.4 ft) |
| Length | 22.3 m (73.2 ft) |
| Service ceiling | 16000 m (52493 ft) |
| Empty weight | 14500 kg (31967 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 28475 kg (62777 lbs) |
| Powerplant | 2 × turbojets Xian WS-9 delivering 5557 kgp, up to 9305 kgp with afterburner |
| Ejection seat | Zvezda K-36DM |
Current operating countries
| Country | Units | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
China | 103 | |
Numbers in parentheses, e.g. '(+5)', indicate units ordered but not yet delivered.
All operators
Armament
Bombs payload:
- Laser-Guided AVIC LS
Photo of JH-7 Flounder
