Shenyang J-8 II

In April 1981, a conceptual study for an all-weather dual-role development of the J-81 was begun, under the leadership of Gu Songfen, as the J-8 II. The most dramatic change was the discarding of the pitot-type nose intake in favour of twin lateral air intakes to provide both increased airflow for more powerful engines and accommodation for a larger fire control radar. Representing a 70% redesign of the J-81, the J-8 II was powered by a pair of WP-13A II turbojets derived by the Guizhou Engine Company from the WP-7 and each having max dry and afterburning thrusts of 4350kg and 6720kg respectively. The first of six prototypes (including two static test aircraft) was flown on 12 June 1984. Pre-series J-8 II dual-role fighters were delivered by SAC in 1988 with an armament of one twin-barrel 23mm cannon and provision for PL-3 or -4 AAMs or up to 4500kg of external ordnance for the attack mission. Two examples of the J-8 II were delivered to the USA early 1989 for installation by Grumman of an upgraded avionics suite and 55 shipsets of this suite were to have been supplied to SAC (1991-95) for installation in new production J-8 II fighters. In the event, this contract was terminated in 1990.

3-View

A three-view drawing (1647 x 1013)