For the first time, China has unveiled the production facilities of its fifth-generation fighters, hinting at the aircrafts’ readiness for carrier-based catapult launchers.
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At least two J-35 fighter jets were spotted in a hangar of its developer, Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, during an interview with Chinese state broadcaster CCTV on Tuesday.
The stealth aircraft – covered in green paint – were in the background as the TV anchor introduced the J-15T, a 4.5-generation multirole fighter that can be launched by a catapult.
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China’s biggest air show in Zhuhai features new fighter jets and helicopters
China’s biggest air show in Zhuhai features new fighter jets and helicopters
Li Guoen, a test pilot for J-15 fighters of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), said the J-15T had been upgraded from the J-15, with thicker struts, a catapult tow bar and dual-wheel landing gear.
The efficiency of energy absorption of the front landing gear remained a major technical challenge, he said in the interview.
“You can see that the landing gear is very thick … we hope to make this structure slimmer and lighter in the future as that would give the aircraft better control.”
The report did not mention the J-35, but its shipborne version, as well as the naval fighter J-15T, are expected to be deployed on China’s third aircraft carrier.
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