CHENGDU F-7P/PG
(1988 till date)
The Chengdu Jian-7 (export versions F-7) is a Chinese built version of the Soviet MiG-21. Though production ceased in 2008 it continues to serve, mostly as an Interceptor, in several air forces.
First 20 F-7P were delivered in August 1988. An improved version of F-7M, the F-7P incorporates a Martin-Baker 10L zero-zero ejection seat, Grifo 7 radar (later upgraded to Grifo 7 mk.2), GEC Avionics HUD and two extra hard points (total 5) for provision of up to 4 AIM-9L missiles.
Pakistan ordered a total of 80 J-7PG in two batches, with 50 and 30 respectively in each. According to the Pakistan Air Force, the performance at high altitude of the F-7PG has increased more than 83% in comparison to the F-7P/MP.
20 F-7MP converted from F-7M were delivered and are in Pakistani service. It is also known as the F-7P Skybolt like the F-7P. Pakistan Air Force does not distinguish the two since the only difference was how they were produced.
A total of 60 F-7P Skybolts
were built. Starting with this model,
F-7s in the Pakistan Air Force service were upgraded with the Italian FIAR
Grifo-Mk-II radar.
Pakistan is currently the largest non-Chinese F-7 operator, with 120 F-7P and 60 F-7PG single-seat fighters and 15 FT-7P dual seat models delivered to six squadrons (including Combat Commanders School) during the late 1980s and early 90s.
F-7Ps are armed with 2× 30 mm Type 30-1 cannon. 2000 kg combat load can be carried on 5 hard points (1 × under fuselage and 4 × under wing). Combat load consist a combination of rockets, air to missiles, non guided bombs and drop tanks.
F-7Ps are to be replaced with JF-17s by the year 2015.
