In a sunlit aircraft hangar in Chengdu City in the Chinese mainland, veteran engineer Xie Pin, former deputy chief designer of the J-10 fighter series, shares the secrets that keep this jet at the cutting edge even after 40 years of development.
Known as the Vigorous Dragon, the J-10 is a single-engine, multi-role combat aircraft with a delta wing and canard configuration, developed by AVIC Chengdu Aircraft Industrial Group. The export-ready J-10CE builds on this legacy with collaborative combat capabilities, long-range multi-target strikes, and precision attacks in strong electromagnetic interference environments.
Xie explains that the canard wings intersect the leading edge of the main wing, creating powerful vortices that accelerate airflow over the upper surface and boost lift. This clever design not only enhances maneuverability but also gives the J-10 its distinctive silhouette.
Stealth upgrades play a key role in keeping the jet modern. A special film on the cockpit canopy reduces radar cross-section, while a unique clamshell intake under the fuselage minimizes drag and weight. This intake design channels low-energy boundary layer air through a central gap, maintaining smooth airflow to the engine.
Radar and weapon systems have seen major leaps as well. Modern radar can detect targets up to 200 kilometers away, a vast improvement over earlier fighters that struggled with long-range detection. With 11 external hardpoints, the J-10CE can carry various pods, beyond-visual-range missiles, and precision munitions, making it a versatile force in the sky.
As Xie reflects on his decades of work, the J-10 series stands out as a testament to continuous innovation. Its blend of aerodynamic finesse, stealth technology, and advanced avionics shows how thoughtful upgrades can extend the lifespan of a fighter jet and keep it ready for tomorrow's challenges.
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Former designer decodes secrets of China's J-10 fighter jet series
cgtn.com
