China’s new FTC-2000G multi-role combat aircraft makes debut flight. FTC-2000G is a fixed-wing, multi-role combat plane mainly tasked with airstrikes against ground targets.
It is developed by state-owned defense company Aviation Industry Corp of China (AVIC). It flew for about 10 minutes in Guizhou. The aircraft can double up as a fighter or trainer aircraft, according to AVIC.
Information from AVIC showed the twin-seat plane is a modified version of an advanced training jet that has been deployed by the Chinese Air Force and Navy.
It has a maximum speed of Mach 1.2, or 1,470 km per hour, a maximum takeoff weight of 11 metric tons, a maximum flight range of 2,400 km, and an operational flight ceiling of 15 km.
Equipped with modern radar and fire-control systems, it is capable of staying airborne for three hours in a single operation and can carry three tons of missiles, rockets or bombs, according to the company.
As a light-duty attack aircraft or fighter jet, the FTC-2000G is able to replace old models fielded by developing countries such as China’s J-7 and the former Soviet Union’s Mig-21.
FTC-2000G is a variant of the FTC-2000 Mountain Eagle (Shanying) with improved multi-role capabilities. FTC-2000 is the export designation of JL-9 two-seat fighter-trainer operated by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
FTC-2000 is a JJ-7/FT-7 with a new wing, a forward fuselage with side air intakes, and a glass cockpit. The engine, empennage, and mechanical controls of the JJ-7/FT-7 are retained. The FTC-2000G uses a diverterless supersonic inlet and has more hardpoints. The FTC-2000G is heavier, slower, and has less endurance than the FTC-2000. The model can have up to seven hardpoints and a maximum suspension weight of 3,000 kg.
As a trainer, it can replace China’s FT-7 or British BAE Systems Hawk and can work with AVIC’s K-8 intermediate jet to form an advanced training system for military pilots.
