Fighter China project was launched after US canceled its
Precipitation in the "Chengdu Super-7" project, and after Pakistan decided to buy the project and work on it by itself.
Russian design bureau, MIG OKB is also believed to be assisting in the project. The design assistance was based on
Possibly then designated MIG-33. The FC-1 supposed to be a single seater, mid technology highly maneuverable fighter FC-1's static airframe was built to test the airframe and engines. Pakistan is expecting to order western avionics for
Its planes, but Chinese versions will have Chinese or Russian avionics. FC-1 was supposed to be in full-scale production in around 97, but the tough requirements set by the PAF caused the project to be delayed a little. Now the FC-1 is supposed to have a first flight in late 99 or early 2000. The cost of each plane is supposed to be under $15 million a piece, but can go still lower if the # of customers increases. The Main design features are a mid mounted delta wings, similar to of those in F-16, single turbo fan engine with twin side intakes, large main dorsal fin with dorsal fairing and two smaller uncanted ventral fins.
Highs: Large intake trunks provide for a considerably larger space for fuel and thus increasing range. Possibly the FBW control system, eliminating the slow and bulky hydraulic controls and increased maneuverability. Leading edge flaps also might be used for increasing maneuverability. Very low cost compare to the performance. Single engine and light weight fuselage making it a good dog fighter. A first try for a country completely naïve to the air plane industry. 7 hard points for weapons, and a wide variety of weapons that can be used by it.
Lows: Mid technology fighter, inferior to the latest designs in air combat. RD-93 engine with not a very long life. Project delayed till 2002 or 03 (full-scale production) but we need it now.
