A New Chinese Naval JL-9 Appears, Possibly for Carriers

摘要

A vic Guizhou is developing what may be a shipboard version of its JL-9G supersonic trainer intended for use on Chinese aircraft carriers. Separately, the state operation says it has taken a first foreign order for the JL-9G in its export configuration, the combat-capable FTC-2000G. Myanmar appears to be the customer. The new domestic version must be only a candidate for some requirement, not yet selected for production, because Avic Guizhou speaks of trying idly to its first flight, says the company, which is formally called Guizhou Aviation Industry Corp.; it is part of Avic. Since the new aircraft was painted in the red and white colors used by JL-9Gs in naval service, it must be intended for the navy. Representatives of the armed forces were present when final assembly was completed earlier on April 19, Avic Guizhou says.