'SUPER-7' set to take maiden flight
( 2003-07-09 16:21) (chinadaily.com.cn)
The "SUPER-7" fighter jet is ready to take its maiden flight although a
detailed timetable has not yet been released.
Leiqiang, deputy director
of the Chengdu Flight Group's trial flight department under the Chinese Air
Force, said on Tuesday he will carry out the maiden flight task.
The "SUPER-7" is the first fighter jet completely designed and manufactured
by China.
The third-generation fighter plane, which can carry 3.8 tons of missiles,
also has improved systems for attacking ground targets. Its advanced radar
positioning and operating systems give the plane greater flexibility and better
close-range manoeuvrability.
On the day of the first flight, China Central Television (CCTV) will dispatch
a special report group to broadcast the whole flight live. Leiqiang, also a
"SUPER-7" pilot, and Yangwei, the jet's designer, who is also regarded as the
father of "SUPER-7," will be featured on the CCTV program "Face to
Face."
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