War Thunder Wiki - User contributions [en]

JH-7A

2023-11-14T19:35:19Z

U58581660: Limits, Wings (km/h), Gear Flaps (km/h), Combat Take-off Landing, Features Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute

{{Specs-Card
|code=jh_7a
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The development program of the JH-7 "Flying Leopard" is a lesser-known but fascinating story in the realm of Chinese military aviation. Initially, the project was aimed at creating a capable twin-engine fighter-bomber during the late 20th century. The JH-7's early history was marked by significant challenges and delays, often due to resource constraints and a lack of access to advanced technology. However, Chinese engineers and aviation experts persisted, and the program eventually gave birth to the JH-7A in 2004, the initial variant of this aircraft. The JH-7A showcased China's determination to bolster its military capabilities, particularly in the realm of precision strike and maritime operations. While it might not have received the same global attention as other strike-fighter aircraft programs of its era, the JH-7 Flounder's journey reflects China's steady progress in the development of its indigenous military technology.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (NATO reporting name: ''Flounder'') was introduced in [[Update "Kings of Battle"]]. Being a dedicated strike-fighter, the JH-7A specializes in the ground-strike role, and suffers in dedicated air-to-air combat at its battle rating, despite having access to the formidable [[PL-8]] and [[PL-5C]] all aspect missiles. As such, this aircraft can struggle in dedicated air modes, and instead shines the brightest in mixed battles thanks to its selection of precision ground ordnance and powerful targeting pod. The strong radar and all-aspect missiles can prove to be a strong form of self defence in mixed battles if the need arises. All in all, the JH-7A serves as a major upgrade in technology and capability over its predecessors in the tech tree, namely the Q-5 family.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at _,___ m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| ___ || ___ || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | ___
|-
! Upgraded
| ___ || ___ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,331{{Specs|destruction|body}} || 450{{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 710 || 660 || 440 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | _____ || _
| colspan="2" | _,___ kg || colspan="2" | ___ kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel
|-
| ___ kg || colspan="2" | ___
| _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (___%/WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || ___%/WEP
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || ___ kgf || ___ kgf
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
|-
| ''Optimal'' || ___ kgf (_ km/h) || ___ kgf (_ km/h)
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|Type 23-3 (23 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 23 mm Type 23-3 cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
* 84 x large calibre countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}

''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== Pros and cons ===

''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''

'''Pros:'''

*

'''Cons:'''

*

== History ==

=== Devblog History ===
After several years of development, China finalized the development of its own fighter-bomber, the JH-7, which ticked all of the boxes that were set out by PLA command for an aircraft to replace the outdated Q-5. In 1999, following orders from the Central Military Committee, work began on creating an improved version of the JH-7. This extensive modernization program included 303 changes, which included improving the fire control system with the introduction of a digital electronic sighting system, as well as increasing the range of its suspended weapons. This updated fighter-bomber, now designated JH-7A made its first flight in 2002, and began entering service in October 2004. JH-7A aircraft are still currently serving in the Chinese Air Force.

== Media ==

''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8546-development-jh-7a-the-flying-leopard-en|[Devblog] JH-7A: The Flying Leopard!]]

{{AirManufacturer Xi'an}}
{{China jet aircraft}}

JH-7A

2023-11-14T19:30:30Z

U58581660: wing gear flap

{{Specs-Card
|code=jh_7a
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The development program of the JH-7 "Flying Leopard" is a lesser-known but fascinating story in the realm of Chinese military aviation. Initially, the project was aimed at creating a capable twin-engine fighter-bomber during the late 20th century. The JH-7's early history was marked by significant challenges and delays, often due to resource constraints and a lack of access to advanced technology. However, Chinese engineers and aviation experts persisted, and the program eventually gave birth to the JH-7A in 2004, the initial variant of this aircraft. The JH-7A showcased China's determination to bolster its military capabilities, particularly in the realm of precision strike and maritime operations. While it might not have received the same global attention as other strike-fighter aircraft programs of its era, the JH-7 Flounder's journey reflects China's steady progress in the development of its indigenous military technology.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (NATO reporting name: ''Flounder'') was introduced in [[Update "Kings of Battle"]]. Being a dedicated strike-fighter, the JH-7A specializes in the ground-strike role, and suffers in dedicated air-to-air combat at its battle rating, despite having access to the formidable [[PL-8]] and [[PL-5C]] all aspect missiles. As such, this aircraft can struggle in dedicated air modes, and instead shines the brightest in mixed battles thanks to its selection of precision ground ordnance and powerful targeting pod. The strong radar and all-aspect missiles can prove to be a strong form of self defence in mixed battles if the need arises. All in all, the JH-7A serves as a major upgrade in technology and capability over its predecessors in the tech tree, namely the Q-5 family.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at _,___ m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| ___ || ___ || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | ___
|-
! Upgraded
| ___ || ___ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,331{{Specs|destruction|body}} || 450{{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 710 || 660 || 440 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | _____ || _
| colspan="2" | _,___ kg || colspan="2" | ___ kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel
|-
| ___ kg || colspan="2" | ___
| _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (___%/WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || ___%/WEP
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || ___ kgf || ___ kgf
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
|-
| ''Optimal'' || ___ kgf (_ km/h) || ___ kgf (_ km/h)
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|Type 23-3 (23 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 23 mm Type 23-3 cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
* 84 x large calibre countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}

''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== Pros and cons ===

''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''

'''Pros:'''

*

'''Cons:'''

*

== History ==

=== Devblog History ===
After several years of development, China finalized the development of its own fighter-bomber, the JH-7, which ticked all of the boxes that were set out by PLA command for an aircraft to replace the outdated Q-5. In 1999, following orders from the Central Military Committee, work began on creating an improved version of the JH-7. This extensive modernization program included 303 changes, which included improving the fire control system with the introduction of a digital electronic sighting system, as well as increasing the range of its suspended weapons. This updated fighter-bomber, now designated JH-7A made its first flight in 2002, and began entering service in October 2004. JH-7A aircraft are still currently serving in the Chinese Air Force.

== Media ==

''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8546-development-jh-7a-the-flying-leopard-en|[Devblog] JH-7A: The Flying Leopard!]]

{{AirManufacturer Xi'an}}
{{China jet aircraft}}

J-8F

2023-09-06T17:03:34Z

U58581660: Upgraded

{{About
| about = Chinese jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the other version
| link = J-8B
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=j_8f
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (Chinese: 歼-8F型歼击机; unified NATO codename: Finback 长须鲸) was the final combat variant of the J-8 series interceptors, built by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC, 沈飞) from remaining J-8II airframes or by upgrading previous J-8Ds in the mid-2000s. The project traces back to the J-8C (or J-8III) project for domestic avionic upgrades for J-8II: although the unreliable WP-14 engine ruined the whole project, the radar systems were tested rather successfully and marked the completion of a domestic pulse-Doppler radar. By the end of the 20th century, the plans for Project 12 (PL-12) were also on schedule for domestic ARH AAM. Thus the placeholder aircraft, J-8H, with a new radar joined the PLAAF with PL-11 SARH, while the J-8F with a modified radar based on the former radar and new NATO-equivalent FCS main bus was finalised by 2005 and became a cornerstone of the PLAAF until new interceptors replaced them from June 2022.

Introduced in [[Update "La Royale"]], the J-8F is the first domestic Chinese jet with a pulse-Doppler-capable radar, featuring new powerful PL-8 AAMs and the ability to mount missiles on all wing pylons. The jet is also upgraded with new engines with higher thrust, new all- RWR systems and the J-8II's signature differential elevators for better roll rate. While it is still unable to equip PL-11 SARH missiles due to incompatible radar equipment, the new PL-8 missile and avionics will not disappoint players.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

The J-8F, like any other variant of the J-8 series, can be summarized as "Fishbed on Steroids" where the original design of J-8 series were based on simply putting 2 engines onto an enlarged MiG-21-like airframe. While the J-8F retained the signature delta wing, differential elevators and side intakes from the II series, for better flight performance, the jet is equipped with two new engines with higher thrust and additional pair of wing fence by the outboard of the wings, as well as new RWR systems for better situational awareness. The overall performance is better than its predecessor, the [[J-8B]], in most aspects. Players who have already researched the former would get on hand with the new jet fairly quickly thanks to its identical, if not better manoeuvrability for such a huge jet thanks to its antique yet advanced internal components. It still cannot outturn MiG-29 or F-14s in any cases, but the delta wings will still keep the J-8F in a reasonable turn rate while the engines can ensure prolonged (albeit not suggested) dogfights with even earlier jets that are lighter.

The probability of being hit is proportional to the plane's overall size: this is especially true since the J-8II series have been the longest jets in game (at a whopping 21.93 m, at least 2 m longer than the F-14 series). Its delta wing will bleed the speed at fast rate during high AoA manoeuvres. Be extra careful on when to enter the battlefield and scatter enemy jet formations using its high speed, then turn back to the main battlefield for opportunities to take out lonely enemies or those who are careless about the situation; they will meet a swift end if the high-performance missiles guided by HMD hit them.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,227 || 2,192 || rowspan="2" | 16000{{Specs|ceiling}} || 27.6 || 28.3 || 181.9 || 173.2 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,373 || 2300 || 26.4 || 27.0 || 262.0 || 220.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || ___ || ___ || ___ || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Shenyang Liming WP-13B-II || 2
| colspan="2" | 9,977 kg || colspan="2" | 340 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 28m fuel
|-
| 1,170 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 11,273 kg || 12,972 kg || 14,297 kg || 16,745 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 28m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 4,743 kgf || 6,967 kgf
| 1.24 || 1.07 || 0.97 || 0.80
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 4,812 kgf (1,365 km/h) || 8,003 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.42 || 1.23 || 1.12 || 0.92
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

Like most jets of its era, the J-8F still retained certain degree of extra protection due to its late introduction in the early 2000s on a rather obsolete airframe. Meanwhile, some standard equipment like self-sealing tanks and bulletproof glass are still present.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|Type 23-3 (23 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 23 mm Type 23-3 cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
** 1 x 23 mm Type 23-3 cannon + 64 x large calibre countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
| rowspan="8" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_J-8B.png]]</div>
|-
! [[250-3 (250 kg)|250 kg 250-3]] bombs
| || 1 || || 6 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[250-4 (250 kg)|250 kg 250-4]] bombs
| || 1 || || 6 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[500-3 (500 kg)|500 kg 500-3]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[500-4 (500 kg)|500 kg 500-4]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[Type 90-1]] rockets
| 7 || 7 || || || || 7 || 7
|-
! [[PL-5B]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[PL-8]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* Without load
* 2 x PL-5B missiles
* 6 x PL-5B missiles
* 6 x PL-8 missiles
* 8 x 250 kg 250-3 bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 8 x 250 kg 250-4 bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg 500-3 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg 500-4 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 28 x Type 90-1 rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

For players who are very familiar with the loadouts on the J-8B, most of the available weapons are identical on both jets, with the PL-8 (licensed Rafael Python-3) being the exception. Due to the lack of radar-guided missiles, some players might find this a huge drawback that they will have to get close enough to enemy jets to even launch IR-guided AAMs at the first place. However, the PL-8 is a game-changer for the J-8F; with not only the best all-aspect locking range among NATO equivalents, the J-8F is also equipped with HMD for off-bore launches. A full loadout of 6 x PL-8 can be a nightmare for the enemy team if utilized carefully. The old faithful PL-5B still serves as its stock missiles - although it might be somewhat obsolete at the BR, launches on careless targets can still earn some quick victories.

The ground-attack loadout is totally identical to the J-8B though, with varieties of bombs and rockets at its disposal. Although neither the calibre nor explosive content of the Type 90-1 HEAT rocket is effective for hunting enemy MBTs even with a precise hit, they can still serve as an extra card on hand alongside the -3 series low drag GP bombs or -4 series drag chute retarded bombs. The bombs will certainly be more effective against more valuable targets such as MBTs, while saving rockets for vulnerable SPAA systems and light tanks.

== Usage in battles ==

Like its predecessors, the J-8F is designed to be a high-altitude interceptor that utilize ranges of missiles, especially radar-guided missiles; but due to avionic changes on J-8F, the only missile of such type is the PL-12 which is yet to introduce in future patches. This also eliminates the option to use earlier PL-11 or Aspide-1A SARH AAM from earlier variants of J-8II (J-8B, D and H). For the time being, the only two options are both IR missiles, PL-5B and PL-8. Still, the overall manoeuvrability is still surprisingly good for such a huge jet and retained the similar flight envelope of the late MiG-21 series (MF or bis). To make the best out of the J-8F, unless in dire situation or 1-vs-1, use the J-8F as an interceptor instead of a fighter where its sheer size will be a huge plus for enemy guns to land upon the airframe, ruining the aerodynamics of the jet or being shot down right away.

==== Air Battles: The High-Speed Missile Train ====
The sheer size of the jet and its NATO codename of "Finback" could be a problem when there are enemies behind the J-8F's tail. Due to the availability of only IR AAMs, instead of being an interceptor and hunt down high-flyers, doing the opposite, i.e rushing into chaotic battlefield and taking out enemy jets is a viable option as preceded from J-8B. Although having an AN/APG-66V equivalent radar is a major plus for the jet, it's currently more a mean to search BVR targets from long range to plan ahead for a sudden attack or interfere with enemy RWRs to hide oncoming radar-guided missiles from other teammates. Instead, it has another spade on its hand: a HMD fused with the technology from Russia and Israel. Not only it now enables off-bore lock-on to enemy jets, it also has a rather long acquisition range at whopping 5 km. The old friend PL-5B and newcomer PL-8 are the only available missiles for the jet. Even at this tier, the PL-5B still retains its immersive thrust that can take out enemy jets at around 4 km away while having 30 G overload, it is especially dangerous for careless jets which have no situational awareness for the incoming missile; HMD further enhance its acquisition at rear-aspects and making the J-8F able to fire with more flexibility upon enemy targets. While the PL-8 finally enables all-aspect lock on to enemy jets for PLAAF jets, not only it has the most immersive thrust among all NATO/US-allied countries IR AAMs, it also has unprecedented overload at 40 G which is more than enough to do all-aspect launches from unexpected angles at Mach 3.5 max speed thanks to the HMD. There are even occasions where low to high launches with more than 3 km altitude differences can hit targets at 5 km away, given the target didn't manoeuvre. With all 6 pylons available for IR missiles, scoring victories will not be a problem when picking the targets carefully i.e. those not using cycle salvos for flares or those already engaged in heated battles. Another note is that the J-8II series since the J-8D comes with a KJ8602 RWR with all-aspect detection, making players easier to identify threats without having to guess the exact direction.

Alternatively, some players will make use of its high payload to make extra profit against enemy fortifications or bases; eight 250 kg bombs are just enough to destroy a top-tier base with a single run. Just make sure to avoid any enemy jets which are eager to hunt down players who wanted to ruin their bases.

If players used up all their payloads, the remaining option is the Type 23-3 autocannon. While its technological predecessor, GSh-23L is infamous for its rather curved ballistics due to its low muzzle velocity, thanks to the Type 1492 PD radar and new HUD, the jet now enjoys ballistic computer for the gun as well and easier to land shots on enemy jets. While traditional, unassisted aiming is still viable to experienced players, be sure to compensate for the ballistics with more AoA. Most of all, the J-8F is always an interceptor; only use its sufficient manoeuvrability in dire situation or 1-vs-1 dogfights, as the delta wing design is a double-edge sword for the jet.

==== Ground Battles: The "JH-8" ====
A little fact to the J-8II series: there were competitions for the new PLAAF strike aircraft in the 1980. While XAC's JH-7 Flying Leopard (Feibao 飞豹; NATO codename Flounder) won the competition, one of the failed options was SAC's JH-8 based on J-8II (the other one was NAMC's Q-6). And in fact J-8II does have sufficient air to ground payload (albeit no guided munition for these operations); there are options to take a mix of 250 kg bombs for multiple targets or 500 kg bombs for higher chance for a knock-out. Since the J-8F could fly at more than 1,300 km/h at sea level, chances are players have to consider which type of bomb to take. The -3 series are low-drag GP bombs while the -4 are drag-chute retard bombs; due to the lack of CCRP function, players have to either fly high and dive on enemies when taking the -3 series (very risky when any enemy SPAA, especially [[Pantsir-S1]], is online) or flying at top speed at very low-altitude to avoid any radar detection; be sure to plan ahead for the assault for maximum efficiency. Alternatively, some players would still take Type 90-1 rockets to take down light vehicles or SPAA systems with the help of the ballistic computer; bringing a mix of rockets, bombs or even IR AAMs can turn J-8F into its prospected usage as a fighter-bomber and enemy vehicles will be troubled by the "JH-8".

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Rather high overall engine thrust
* Advanced avionics
** First PLAAF jet to equip domestic PD radar with sufficient detection range
** HMD for off-bore launches, especially for all-aspect IR AAM
** All-aspect KJ8602 RWR, unlike Warsaw Pact SPO-15 with limited all-aspect capabilities
* 6 powerful PL-8s with very long lock-on range and high overload
* Sufficient payload for occasional ground-attack operations
* Retained the same, if not better manoeuvrability from J-8B
* High top speed
* First-stage afterburner is surprisingly efficient, providing relatively high thrust for minimal fuel consumption

'''Cons:'''

* Lacks any form of radar-guided weaponry
* Rather large target due to its long airframe
* Relatively small ammo pool
* Delta wing design and its size cause severe speed bleeding in manoeuvres
* Any damage to the tail or rear of the airframe, especially the elevators, can result in the aircraft being very difficult to control or completely disabled

== History ==

==== J-8C, the Ancestor ====
By 1986, there were plans to upgrade the already obsolete J-8II with completely new domestic avionics, in parallel to the Sino-American Peace Pearl (和平珍珠) program in 1984 to upgrade the jet with US/NATO avionics during the better days of Sino-American relationship. Soon after 1989's national-wide riots and the subsequent crackdown in the capital city of Beijing, although Grumman could still continue the project with SAC, due to the rise of budgets and difficulties to purchase NATO avionics after sanctions, the Peace Pearl was eventually cancelled. While the new variant, known as J-8C or J-8III was added to the schedule as Chairman Jiang Zemin (江泽民; 1927/8/17-2022/11/30) approved for the development of the 争气机 (lit. The Good-Show Jet; note: the term 争气 means to earn credits in terms of honour) at 1990/10/31 as the domestic alternatives to the Project 10 (J-10) and Su-27SK Flanker-B. There are two major features of the J-8C: Shenyang Liming WP-14 Kunlun turbojet engine and NRIET Type 1471 PD radar; although early test flights with the modified J-8II prototype airframes were like sailing on fair sea, the crash of two prototypes (one due to ATC miscommunication; one due to onboard fire) were already more than enough to give a death sentence to the project. After the successful test flights of the J-10, and an increase in the fleet of Flankers both from KnAAZ and SAC's J-11A, the project was eventually ditched by 2001. While the Kunlun bit the dust, the Type 1471 radar proved to be rather successful and set the cornerstone for future domestic radars. This was where the story J-8F begun.

==== Hotel and Foxtrot ====
By the time the J-8C was still under test flights, the other variant, the J-8D with aerial refuel capabilities took off to the skies by the end of 1991 and the plans to utilize the unused airframes started as well to further enhance to combat capabilities of J-8II. A well-known flaw of the J-8B was the rather inferior Changhong Type 208A radar that wasted many imported Aspide-1A (known as A弹 [A-missile] in PLAAF); the upgrade plans included a new PD radar for the SARH missiles and new WP-13B engines. The green lights were given in December 1999 and test flights done in the 2000s also make the new J-8H as the very first operational domestic jet with LD/SD capabilities, as well as PD (NRIET Type 1491) radar.

But before the test flights of the J-8H, the Air-to-Air Missile Research Institute (空空导弹研究院) also started the "Project 12" (12号工程) of what will be known as the PL-12 in the future; the radar needed to be able to guide PL-12 and TWS capabilities to hit 2 targets. Thus the J-8F planned for another new radar and WP-13B-II engines started its journey in 1998 and tested alongside with J-8H in 2000. Both J-8H and F featured the 149x series PD radar, black radome with lightning strip diverters, KJ8602 RWR from J-8D, as well as new pair of wing fence on the outboard of wings; the only visual difference for these two jets without any payload is a notch by the right side of the radome that indicated the installation of NRIET Type 1492 radar). Since the doctrine of PLAAF changed vastly and with the success of the PL-12, the J-8F became the final standardized version of the J-8 series and joined the PLAAF since 2002, serving as the trio of frontline fighters alongside with J-10s and Flankers. The J-8F was also the basis of the J-8FR (歼侦-8F) with recon pod replacing the autocannon (it was proposed to install WP-14 but later reverted to WP-13B-II for reliability).

As the production of new 4th generation fighters are in steady pace, all the frontline, combat-capable J-8II started to be phrased-out from the mid-2010s and the last division replaced their J-8F with undisclosed jets by June 2022, leaving the 36 J-8FR (24 for PLAAF and 12 for PLANAF) the only J-8 series aircraft still in service; thanks to its impressive climb rate and speed which are essential for recon flights.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=j_8f Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|p_25MEJkZQc|'''The Shooting Range #364''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:24 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}

== See also ==


* [[J-8B]] - J-8II Block 2 with monopulse radar and lesser missile payload

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8271-development-j-8f-jet-fighter-and-future-plans-on-the-bvraams-en|[Devblog] J-8F jet fighter and future plans on the BVRAAMs]]

{{AirManufacturer Shenyang}}
{{China jet aircraft}}

J-8F

2023-09-06T17:01:06Z

U58581660: /* Upgraded speed and turn time and rate of climb */

{{About
| about = Chinese jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the other version
| link = J-8B
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=j_8f
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (Chinese: 歼-8F型歼击机; unified NATO codename: Finback 长须鲸) was the final combat variant of the J-8 series interceptors, built by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC, 沈飞) from remaining J-8II airframes or by upgrading previous J-8Ds in the mid-2000s. The project traces back to the J-8C (or J-8III) project for domestic avionic upgrades for J-8II: although the unreliable WP-14 engine ruined the whole project, the radar systems were tested rather successfully and marked the completion of a domestic pulse-Doppler radar. By the end of the 20th century, the plans for Project 12 (PL-12) were also on schedule for domestic ARH AAM. Thus the placeholder aircraft, J-8H, with a new radar joined the PLAAF with PL-11 SARH, while the J-8F with a modified radar based on the former radar and new NATO-equivalent FCS main bus was finalised by 2005 and became a cornerstone of the PLAAF until new interceptors replaced them from June 2022.

Introduced in [[Update "La Royale"]], the J-8F is the first domestic Chinese jet with a pulse-Doppler-capable radar, featuring new powerful PL-8 AAMs and the ability to mount missiles on all wing pylons. The jet is also upgraded with new engines with higher thrust, new all- RWR systems and the J-8II's signature differential elevators for better roll rate. While it is still unable to equip PL-11 SARH missiles due to incompatible radar equipment, the new PL-8 missile and avionics will not disappoint players.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

The J-8F, like any other variant of the J-8 series, can be summarized as "Fishbed on Steroids" where the original design of J-8 series were based on simply putting 2 engines onto an enlarged MiG-21-like airframe. While the J-8F retained the signature delta wing, differential elevators and side intakes from the II series, for better flight performance, the jet is equipped with two new engines with higher thrust and additional pair of wing fence by the outboard of the wings, as well as new RWR systems for better situational awareness. The overall performance is better than its predecessor, the [[J-8B]], in most aspects. Players who have already researched the former would get on hand with the new jet fairly quickly thanks to its identical, if not better manoeuvrability for such a huge jet thanks to its antique yet advanced internal components. It still cannot outturn MiG-29 or F-14s in any cases, but the delta wings will still keep the J-8F in a reasonable turn rate while the engines can ensure prolonged (albeit not suggested) dogfights with even earlier jets that are lighter.

The probability of being hit is proportional to the plane's overall size: this is especially true since the J-8II series have been the longest jets in game (at a whopping 21.93 m, at least 2 m longer than the F-14 series). Its delta wing will bleed the speed at fast rate during high AoA manoeuvres. Be extra careful on when to enter the battlefield and scatter enemy jet formations using its high speed, then turn back to the main battlefield for opportunities to take out lonely enemies or those who are careless about the situation; they will meet a swift end if the high-performance missiles guided by HMD hit them.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,227 || 2,192 || rowspan="2" | 16000{{Specs|ceiling}} || 27.6 || 28.3 || 181.9 || 173.2 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,372 || 330000阿拉伯數位 || 26.4 || 27.0 || 262.0 || 220.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || ___ || ___ || ___ || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Shenyang Liming WP-13B-II || 2
| colspan="2" | 9,977 kg || colspan="2" | 340 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 28m fuel
|-
| 1,170 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 11,273 kg || 12,972 kg || 14,297 kg || 16,745 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 28m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 4,743 kgf || 6,967 kgf
| 1.24 || 1.07 || 0.97 || 0.80
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 4,812 kgf (1,365 km/h) || 8,003 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.42 || 1.23 || 1.12 || 0.92
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

Like most jets of its era, the J-8F still retained certain degree of extra protection due to its late introduction in the early 2000s on a rather obsolete airframe. Meanwhile, some standard equipment like self-sealing tanks and bulletproof glass are still present.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|Type 23-3 (23 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 23 mm Type 23-3 cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
** 1 x 23 mm Type 23-3 cannon + 64 x large calibre countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
| rowspan="8" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_J-8B.png]]</div>
|-
! [[250-3 (250 kg)|250 kg 250-3]] bombs
| || 1 || || 6 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[250-4 (250 kg)|250 kg 250-4]] bombs
| || 1 || || 6 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[500-3 (500 kg)|500 kg 500-3]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[500-4 (500 kg)|500 kg 500-4]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[Type 90-1]] rockets
| 7 || 7 || || || || 7 || 7
|-
! [[PL-5B]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[PL-8]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* Without load
* 2 x PL-5B missiles
* 6 x PL-5B missiles
* 6 x PL-8 missiles
* 8 x 250 kg 250-3 bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 8 x 250 kg 250-4 bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg 500-3 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg 500-4 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 28 x Type 90-1 rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

For players who are very familiar with the loadouts on the J-8B, most of the available weapons are identical on both jets, with the PL-8 (licensed Rafael Python-3) being the exception. Due to the lack of radar-guided missiles, some players might find this a huge drawback that they will have to get close enough to enemy jets to even launch IR-guided AAMs at the first place. However, the PL-8 is a game-changer for the J-8F; with not only the best all-aspect locking range among NATO equivalents, the J-8F is also equipped with HMD for off-bore launches. A full loadout of 6 x PL-8 can be a nightmare for the enemy team if utilized carefully. The old faithful PL-5B still serves as its stock missiles - although it might be somewhat obsolete at the BR, launches on careless targets can still earn some quick victories.

The ground-attack loadout is totally identical to the J-8B though, with varieties of bombs and rockets at its disposal. Although neither the calibre nor explosive content of the Type 90-1 HEAT rocket is effective for hunting enemy MBTs even with a precise hit, they can still serve as an extra card on hand alongside the -3 series low drag GP bombs or -4 series drag chute retarded bombs. The bombs will certainly be more effective against more valuable targets such as MBTs, while saving rockets for vulnerable SPAA systems and light tanks.

== Usage in battles ==

Like its predecessors, the J-8F is designed to be a high-altitude interceptor that utilize ranges of missiles, especially radar-guided missiles; but due to avionic changes on J-8F, the only missile of such type is the PL-12 which is yet to introduce in future patches. This also eliminates the option to use earlier PL-11 or Aspide-1A SARH AAM from earlier variants of J-8II (J-8B, D and H). For the time being, the only two options are both IR missiles, PL-5B and PL-8. Still, the overall manoeuvrability is still surprisingly good for such a huge jet and retained the similar flight envelope of the late MiG-21 series (MF or bis). To make the best out of the J-8F, unless in dire situation or 1-vs-1, use the J-8F as an interceptor instead of a fighter where its sheer size will be a huge plus for enemy guns to land upon the airframe, ruining the aerodynamics of the jet or being shot down right away.

==== Air Battles: The High-Speed Missile Train ====
The sheer size of the jet and its NATO codename of "Finback" could be a problem when there are enemies behind the J-8F's tail. Due to the availability of only IR AAMs, instead of being an interceptor and hunt down high-flyers, doing the opposite, i.e rushing into chaotic battlefield and taking out enemy jets is a viable option as preceded from J-8B. Although having an AN/APG-66V equivalent radar is a major plus for the jet, it's currently more a mean to search BVR targets from long range to plan ahead for a sudden attack or interfere with enemy RWRs to hide oncoming radar-guided missiles from other teammates. Instead, it has another spade on its hand: a HMD fused with the technology from Russia and Israel. Not only it now enables off-bore lock-on to enemy jets, it also has a rather long acquisition range at whopping 5 km. The old friend PL-5B and newcomer PL-8 are the only available missiles for the jet. Even at this tier, the PL-5B still retains its immersive thrust that can take out enemy jets at around 4 km away while having 30 G overload, it is especially dangerous for careless jets which have no situational awareness for the incoming missile; HMD further enhance its acquisition at rear-aspects and making the J-8F able to fire with more flexibility upon enemy targets. While the PL-8 finally enables all-aspect lock on to enemy jets for PLAAF jets, not only it has the most immersive thrust among all NATO/US-allied countries IR AAMs, it also has unprecedented overload at 40 G which is more than enough to do all-aspect launches from unexpected angles at Mach 3.5 max speed thanks to the HMD. There are even occasions where low to high launches with more than 3 km altitude differences can hit targets at 5 km away, given the target didn't manoeuvre. With all 6 pylons available for IR missiles, scoring victories will not be a problem when picking the targets carefully i.e. those not using cycle salvos for flares or those already engaged in heated battles. Another note is that the J-8II series since the J-8D comes with a KJ8602 RWR with all-aspect detection, making players easier to identify threats without having to guess the exact direction.

Alternatively, some players will make use of its high payload to make extra profit against enemy fortifications or bases; eight 250 kg bombs are just enough to destroy a top-tier base with a single run. Just make sure to avoid any enemy jets which are eager to hunt down players who wanted to ruin their bases.

If players used up all their payloads, the remaining option is the Type 23-3 autocannon. While its technological predecessor, GSh-23L is infamous for its rather curved ballistics due to its low muzzle velocity, thanks to the Type 1492 PD radar and new HUD, the jet now enjoys ballistic computer for the gun as well and easier to land shots on enemy jets. While traditional, unassisted aiming is still viable to experienced players, be sure to compensate for the ballistics with more AoA. Most of all, the J-8F is always an interceptor; only use its sufficient manoeuvrability in dire situation or 1-vs-1 dogfights, as the delta wing design is a double-edge sword for the jet.

==== Ground Battles: The "JH-8" ====
A little fact to the J-8II series: there were competitions for the new PLAAF strike aircraft in the 1980. While XAC's JH-7 Flying Leopard (Feibao 飞豹; NATO codename Flounder) won the competition, one of the failed options was SAC's JH-8 based on J-8II (the other one was NAMC's Q-6). And in fact J-8II does have sufficient air to ground payload (albeit no guided munition for these operations); there are options to take a mix of 250 kg bombs for multiple targets or 500 kg bombs for higher chance for a knock-out. Since the J-8F could fly at more than 1,300 km/h at sea level, chances are players have to consider which type of bomb to take. The -3 series are low-drag GP bombs while the -4 are drag-chute retard bombs; due to the lack of CCRP function, players have to either fly high and dive on enemies when taking the -3 series (very risky when any enemy SPAA, especially [[Pantsir-S1]], is online) or flying at top speed at very low-altitude to avoid any radar detection; be sure to plan ahead for the assault for maximum efficiency. Alternatively, some players would still take Type 90-1 rockets to take down light vehicles or SPAA systems with the help of the ballistic computer; bringing a mix of rockets, bombs or even IR AAMs can turn J-8F into its prospected usage as a fighter-bomber and enemy vehicles will be troubled by the "JH-8".

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Rather high overall engine thrust
* Advanced avionics
** First PLAAF jet to equip domestic PD radar with sufficient detection range
** HMD for off-bore launches, especially for all-aspect IR AAM
** All-aspect KJ8602 RWR, unlike Warsaw Pact SPO-15 with limited all-aspect capabilities
* 6 powerful PL-8s with very long lock-on range and high overload
* Sufficient payload for occasional ground-attack operations
* Retained the same, if not better manoeuvrability from J-8B
* High top speed
* First-stage afterburner is surprisingly efficient, providing relatively high thrust for minimal fuel consumption

'''Cons:'''

* Lacks any form of radar-guided weaponry
* Rather large target due to its long airframe
* Relatively small ammo pool
* Delta wing design and its size cause severe speed bleeding in manoeuvres
* Any damage to the tail or rear of the airframe, especially the elevators, can result in the aircraft being very difficult to control or completely disabled

== History ==

==== J-8C, the Ancestor ====
By 1986, there were plans to upgrade the already obsolete J-8II with completely new domestic avionics, in parallel to the Sino-American Peace Pearl (和平珍珠) program in 1984 to upgrade the jet with US/NATO avionics during the better days of Sino-American relationship. Soon after 1989's national-wide riots and the subsequent crackdown in the capital city of Beijing, although Grumman could still continue the project with SAC, due to the rise of budgets and difficulties to purchase NATO avionics after sanctions, the Peace Pearl was eventually cancelled. While the new variant, known as J-8C or J-8III was added to the schedule as Chairman Jiang Zemin (江泽民; 1927/8/17-2022/11/30) approved for the development of the 争气机 (lit. The Good-Show Jet; note: the term 争气 means to earn credits in terms of honour) at 1990/10/31 as the domestic alternatives to the Project 10 (J-10) and Su-27SK Flanker-B. There are two major features of the J-8C: Shenyang Liming WP-14 Kunlun turbojet engine and NRIET Type 1471 PD radar; although early test flights with the modified J-8II prototype airframes were like sailing on fair sea, the crash of two prototypes (one due to ATC miscommunication; one due to onboard fire) were already more than enough to give a death sentence to the project. After the successful test flights of the J-10, and an increase in the fleet of Flankers both from KnAAZ and SAC's J-11A, the project was eventually ditched by 2001. While the Kunlun bit the dust, the Type 1471 radar proved to be rather successful and set the cornerstone for future domestic radars. This was where the story J-8F begun.

==== Hotel and Foxtrot ====
By the time the J-8C was still under test flights, the other variant, the J-8D with aerial refuel capabilities took off to the skies by the end of 1991 and the plans to utilize the unused airframes started as well to further enhance to combat capabilities of J-8II. A well-known flaw of the J-8B was the rather inferior Changhong Type 208A radar that wasted many imported Aspide-1A (known as A弹 [A-missile] in PLAAF); the upgrade plans included a new PD radar for the SARH missiles and new WP-13B engines. The green lights were given in December 1999 and test flights done in the 2000s also make the new J-8H as the very first operational domestic jet with LD/SD capabilities, as well as PD (NRIET Type 1491) radar.

But before the test flights of the J-8H, the Air-to-Air Missile Research Institute (空空导弹研究院) also started the "Project 12" (12号工程) of what will be known as the PL-12 in the future; the radar needed to be able to guide PL-12 and TWS capabilities to hit 2 targets. Thus the J-8F planned for another new radar and WP-13B-II engines started its journey in 1998 and tested alongside with J-8H in 2000. Both J-8H and F featured the 149x series PD radar, black radome with lightning strip diverters, KJ8602 RWR from J-8D, as well as new pair of wing fence on the outboard of wings; the only visual difference for these two jets without any payload is a notch by the right side of the radome that indicated the installation of NRIET Type 1492 radar). Since the doctrine of PLAAF changed vastly and with the success of the PL-12, the J-8F became the final standardized version of the J-8 series and joined the PLAAF since 2002, serving as the trio of frontline fighters alongside with J-10s and Flankers. The J-8F was also the basis of the J-8FR (歼侦-8F) with recon pod replacing the autocannon (it was proposed to install WP-14 but later reverted to WP-13B-II for reliability).

As the production of new 4th generation fighters are in steady pace, all the frontline, combat-capable J-8II started to be phrased-out from the mid-2010s and the last division replaced their J-8F with undisclosed jets by June 2022, leaving the 36 J-8FR (24 for PLAAF and 12 for PLANAF) the only J-8 series aircraft still in service; thanks to its impressive climb rate and speed which are essential for recon flights.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=j_8f Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|p_25MEJkZQc|'''The Shooting Range #364''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:24 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}

== See also ==


* [[J-8B]] - J-8II Block 2 with monopulse radar and lesser missile payload

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8271-development-j-8f-jet-fighter-and-future-plans-on-the-bvraams-en|[Devblog] J-8F jet fighter and future plans on the BVRAAMs]]

{{AirManufacturer Shenyang}}
{{China jet aircraft}}

F-16A MLU (China)

2023-01-05T19:31:21Z

U58581660: /* Flight performance */

{{Specs-Card
|code=f_16a_block_20_mlu
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', also known as F-16 Block 20, is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Chinese jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Apex Predators"]].

The hybrid version between the F-16A Block 15 MLU and the airframe of the F-16C exclusively for the ROCAF; this variant of F-16 provided the long-awaited, reliable multirole fighter featuring a pulse-doppler AN/APG-66 radar as well as sporting some of the latest AAMs in-game. For players who need both interception and ground-attacking capabilities, the Mavericks and LDGP bombs onboard will also make light work of any ground targets.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

Instead of Block 10 or Block 15 ADF, in ROCAF's case, their F-16A MLU (Block 20) has major differences in terms of thrust and appearance: to tell a Block 20 and others apart, there are two parts to differentiate- IFF antenna and the tail; while Block 10 has no antenna and ADF has the "bird-slicer" antenna, MLU received AN/APX-113 IFF with a rounded antenna. The tail in this case also received a drogue chute for highway strip operations. Other than that, the MLU performs mostly identically to izs counterparts with slightly less military thrust. The F-16s are known to be one of the most manoeuvrable jets with their impressive engine thrust and design features for dogfights. In most cases, jets that are an era behind the F-16 will very likely having a hard time biting onto the tail of F-16, since their relatively light weight does help in dogfights and acceleration. The F-16 is also the first mass-produced fighter to use FBW (Fly-by-wire) and in this case, instead of the physical limits of the airframe itself, it also has software limits at 9G continuous overload, so players will have to take extra caution on the speed of the jet: any high speed turns over 750 km/h will very likely trigger this limits.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at _,___ m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| ___ || ___ || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2198 || 2,146
| 19.3 || 19.8 || 340.7 || 295.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,555  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 470 || 463 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220 || 1
| colspan="2" | 7,990 kg || colspan="2" | ___ kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 29m fuel
|-
| 1,470 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 8,962 kg || 10,213 kg || 11,230 kg || 16,048 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 29m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 6,490 kgf || 8,985 kgf
| 1.00 || 0.88 || 0.80 || 0.56
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 7,434 kgf (1,555 km/h) || 15,225 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.70 || 1.49 || 1.36 || 0.95
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

Other than the airframe and alloy skins, the F-16 MLU has no extra protection for pilot or critical equipment. While the jet has equipment like self-sealing fuel tanks and EFS for the engine, if the engine does suffer from a fire, due to only having a single engine, it will still have lesser chance to make it back to the airfield.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, wing root-mounted (512 rpg)
** 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon + 90 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}

{{main|LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|AGM-65B}}
{{main|AIM-7M Sparrow|AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9P Sidewinder}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance presets:

* 1 x 300 gal drop tank
* 2 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 2 x AIM-7M Sparrow missiles
* 12 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 6 x AGM-65B missiles

==== Custom loadout options ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="5%" | 1 !! width="5%" | 2 !! width="5%" | 3 !! width="5%" | 4 !! width="5%" | 5 !! width="5%" | 6 !! width="5%" | 7 !! width="5%" | 8 !! width="5%" | 9
| rowspan="8" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-16A.png]]</div>
|-
! 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs
| || || 3 || 3 || || 3 || 3 || ||
|-
! 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! AGM-65B missiles
| || || 1, 3 || || || || 1, 3 || ||
|-
! AIM-7M Sparrow missiles
| || || 1 || || || || 1 || ||
|-
! AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! 300 gal drop tanks
| || || || || 1 || || || ||
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Equipped with both SARH missiles and air-to-ground weapons, unlike their counterparts in different nations
* Impressive payload for interception missions with up to 6 x AAMs
* Impressive manoeuvrability at around 700 km/h, useful when there's the need for a dogfight
* Equipped with a drogue chute for shorter landing distance

'''Cons:'''

* Suffers from the FBW overload limits of 9G
* Rather small 20 mm ammunition count
* Engine consumes jet fuels at high rate when afterburning, will run out of fuel relatively quickly without drop tanks
* Lacks IRST sensor for target acquisition
* Not equipped with guided bombs for safer ground attacking approach

== History ==

In the 1980s, plans were made for the ROCAF to buy F-16/79s (equipped with J79 engine and worse radar than the F-16A) and F-20 Tigersharks, but failed due to the improving Sino-US relationship as well as limitations of the 1979 Communique. In the 1990s, after the PLAAF purchased numbers of Su-27SK Flanker-B and the increase in new domestic PLAAF jets, ROCAF considered the expansion of the PLAAF to be a major threat as the ROCAF fleet still consisted of masses of obsolete F-104 and F-5E, as well as very few F-CK-1 Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF; aka Ching-Kuo 經國號) and Mirage 2000-5E/F series. In 1989, after the sale of Mirage 2000s to ROCAF, George HW Bush, who was at the time going for presidency, agreed to the sale of 150 F-16A/B alongside weaponry and maintenance equipment to the ROCAF during his election campaign and the sale was dubbed "Peace Pheasant" (和平鳳凰).

By the time this sale was approved, General Dynamics had already started the production run for the new F-16C/D series. To reduce the overhead for reopening production lines of previous models, ROCAF and GD agreed on a hybrid version - the Block 20 with F-16 Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) electronics, F100-PW-220 engine, and airframe and parts of both A and C variants to be delivered to the ROCAF. The new jet rolled off the line in July 1996, which happened to be the heat of 2nd Taiwan Strait Crisis and they were delivered to ROCAF a year later to the 455th FW at Chiayi Airbase (嘉義水上基地), then 401st FW at Hualien Airbase (花蓮基地) in 2002 for a total of 150 jets delivered (120 F-16A and 30 F-16B variants). The new jets solved the major problem of the replacement of F-104 series and strengthened ROCAF's self-defense capability. While the BVR capability was hindered by the AIM-7M Sparrows delivered alongside with the jet, during the first decade of 21st Century, the US also approved the sales of AIM-120C-5/7, AGM-65G Mavericks, and AGM-84L Harpoons for delivery in 2002 and 2007.

While the combat capability of the new 4th generation jets surpassed PLAAF in early 2000s, as the estimate of the number of 4th gens in the PLAAF had increased significantly by late 2010s, ROCAF also agreed on purchasing upgrades from Lockheed Martin (the current manufacturer of F-16) where they would receive new electronics, radar-absorbing paints, and better ECM capabilities against PLAAF aircraft. These upgrades listed on the 2011 and 2018 military sales would become what's known as the F-16V (Viper; listed as AM and BM respectively in ROCAF; dubbed Project Phoenix Soar 鳳展計劃). After the systems were finalized in the late 2010s in the US, the current fleets of F-16s would fly to Taichung Ching-Chung Kang Airbase (台中清泉崗基地) for upgrades by AIDC (漢翔航空工業), with the first of them upgraded in September 2019 while receiving an additional 66 F-16C Block 70s and AGM-158s from US to "balance" the airpower across the Taiwan Strait.

The upgraded F-16AM/BMs (sometimes dubbed a ''Yellow-Skin Snake 黃皮蛇'' by enthusiasts from the anti-corrosion paint during upgrade) now serve as the cornerstone of the ROCAF and perform intensive CAP missions against the intensified ongoing patrol missions from PLAAF aircraft, alongside with F-CK-1s and Mirages.

== Media ==

''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-16 (Family)]]

== External links ==

''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''

* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''

{{AirManufacturer General Dynamics}}
{{China jet aircraft}}

MiG-23M

2021-08-26T15:38:21Z

U58581660: Max Static G and Wings (km/h) and Take-off Landing Flaps (km/h)

{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_23m
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Red Skies"]].

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 13,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,349 || 2,346 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.4 || 35.5 || 149.5 || 144.6 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,369 || 2,358 || 34.6 || 35.0 || 192.3 || 169.9
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1470  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || ___ || 524 || 450 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-29-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,155 kg || colspan="3" | 395 - 445 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,367 kg || 13,462 kg || 14,615 kg || 15,195 kg || __,___ kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,494 kgf
| 0.85 || 0.78 || 0.72 || 0.69 || _.__
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,987 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.05 || 0.96 || 0.89 || 0.85 || _.__
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}

{{main|OFAB-100 (100 kg)|FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)}}
{{main|R-3S|R-13M1|R-23R|R-23T|R-60}}
{{main|Kh-23M|S-5K|S-24}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

* Without load
* 2 x R-3S missiles
* 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,300 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (800 kg total)
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 64 x S-5K rockets (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 4 x R-3S missiles
* 6 x R-60 missiles
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-3S missiles
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 4 x R-13M1 missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-3S missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-23T missiles
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 96 x S-5K rockets
* 4 x S-24 rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Amazingly high top speed.
* Good sustained turn rate.
* Reasonably high acceleration for its size.
* R-23T all aspect missiles.
* Swept-wing aircraft.
* HUD displays speed and altitude information, most useful in simulator mode.
* Can carry 6 x R60 AAMs.
* Contains IRST tracking system and decent radar that allows you to track aerial targets at ground level.
* Varied armament preset selection.

'''Cons:'''

* Underwhelming instantaneous turn rate.
* Low countermeasure count.
* 23 mm cannons are rather weak with Default belt.
* Rather low ammunition count for the 23 mm cannon.

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_23m Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|I0Q3ZuD5o1U|'''The Shooting Range #255''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:25 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|wbRt9S_ZYes|'''How To Use IRST (Infrared Search and Track)''' - ''TeaRex''}}

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7177-development-the-mig-23m-and-rank-vii-for-aviation-en|[Development] The MiG-23M and rank VII for aviation]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/526068-mig-23m Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{USSR jet aircraft}}

MiG-23M

2021-08-23T13:34:12Z

U58581660: /* Survivability and armour */

{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_23m
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Red Skies"]].

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 13,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,349 || 2,346 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.4 || 35.5 || 149.5 || 144.6 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,369 || 2,358 || 34.6 || 35.0 || 192.3 || 169.9
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1490  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || ___ ||524||450|| ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-29-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,155 kg || colspan="3" | 395 - 445 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,367 kg || 13,462 kg || 14,615 kg || 15,195 kg || __,___ kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,494 kgf
| 0.85 || 0.78 || 0.72 || 0.69 || _.__
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,987 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.05 || 0.96 || 0.89 || 0.85 || _.__
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}

{{main|OFAB-100 (100 kg)|FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)}}
{{main|R-3S|R-13M1|R-23R|R-23T|R-60}}
{{main|Kh-23M|S-5K|S-24}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

* Without load
* 2 x R-3S missiles
* 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,300 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (800 kg total)
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 64 x S-5K rockets (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 4 x R-3S missiles
* 6 x R-60 missiles
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-3S missiles
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 4 x R-60 missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 4 x R-13M1 missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-3S missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-23T missiles
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 96 x S-5K rockets
* 4 x S-24 rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Amazingly high top speed.
* Good sustained turn rate.
* Reasonably high acceleration for its size.
* R-23T all aspect missiles.
* Swept-wing aircraft.
* HUD displays speed and altitude information, most useful in simulator mode.
* Can carry 6 x R60 AAMs.
* Contains IRST tracking system and decent radar that allows you to track aerial targets at ground level.
* Varied armament preset selection.

'''Cons:'''

* Underwhelming instantaneous turn rate.
* Low countermeasure count.
* 23 mm cannons are rather weak with Default belt.
* Rather low ammunition count for the 23 mm cannon.

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_23m Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|I0Q3ZuD5o1U|'''The Shooting Range #255''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:25 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|wbRt9S_ZYes|'''How To Use IRST (Infrared Search and Track)''' - ''TeaRex''}}

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7177-development-the-mig-23m-and-rank-vii-for-aviation-en|[Development] The MiG-23M and rank VII for aviation]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/526068-mig-23m Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{USSR jet aircraft}}