J-10 Thread IV
- Thread starter Jeff Head
- Start date
To quote myself from CDF
"Alternatively, another thought is that 1035 (and other frames that belong to its line of tests) may be a test plane for new taihang variants, and is not meant to be for production."
LOL. Turns out the least likely scenario may be the actual one...
It depends what you mean by "not meant for production". I doubt 1035 would be testing WS-10s if they did not intend for J-10B/C to eventually enter production with WS-10s, as I'm sure they have many flankers which would make far safer testbeds for new engines.
thunderchief
Senior Member
I doubt they would use WS-10 on serial J-10B, considering large purchase of Russian engines and arrival on new (sub)variant J-10C. Much would depend on decision how many of interim J-10B planes would be actually built and put in operational service . If they stop J-10B production in near future (let's say this year) and continue with J-10C , then first batches of J-10C would undoubtedly carry AL-31 . Otherwise, it would be prudent to keep Russian engines on A and B variants, and to switch to Chinese engine on C .
I put "J-10B/C" mostly because I'm still a bit iffy on the J-10C designation. I'm wondering if it might be better to call it J-10B block ii or something.
But either way, the point is more that if 1035 is testing new WS-10 variants it is likely they intend to have a projected J-10 variant (likely J-10C/B block ii or whatever one wants to call it) eventually get equipped with it.
thunderchief
Senior Member
Well B and C are mostly internet designations by fanboys like us
but they serve their purpose . For me B would be version with PESA or MS radar , and C later version with more advanced AESA , improved IRST etc...Integral refueling probe on the starboard side? Is this a J-10B or "C"?
Well B and C are mostly internet designations by fanboys like us
Do we have confirmation of either entering service next year?