J-5 of the PLAAF

The J-5 or F-5 (Not to be confused with the American made F-5 Freedom Fighter) is a Chinese-built Single-seat jet interceptor and fighter aircraft derived from the Russian MiG-17.

Overview

After initial experiences with the Mikoyan MiG-15, the Chinese followed the evolutionary development of the MiG as the Soviet Union provided each improved model. The Mikoyan MiG-17 offered upgraded performance over the MiG-15, although it retained the single engine and barrel fuselage shape of its predecessor.

When delivered to China, the aircraft was reverse engineered with some Soviet help and put into production in China. Thousands were produced to equip the huge air forces of the 1950s and 1960s Chinese military.

Specifications

The aircraft had a maximum speed of 1140 km/h (617 knots). It could reach a maximum height of 16,600 meters (54,500 feet). It has a range of 1400 km (755 nautical miles).

Operations

The J-5 has been phased out of service with the PLAAF, but it continues to serve in the North Korean Air Force , and trainer variants see limited use in the Pakistan Air Force.