Akasa
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2015 has been a major year for PLA watchers. As we wrap our heads around the hordes of new UAVs, aircraft, and other combat systems, let's take a look back at our 5 greatest hits of 2015 (for this forum section):
5. Hypersonic drone
In September, it was reported that the Chinese have tested a Mach 4 capable drone from a H-6 carrier aircraft. The drone is equipped with a revolutionary combined tubojet-ramjet engine. The Chinese have been reported to be developing (and possibly have tested) scramjet-powered vehicles as well as variable-cycle engines.
4. DF-5B MIRV ICBM
Although US defense analysts have been predicting this for quite some time now, it came as a bit of shock when the DF-5B made its appearance at the Chinese VJ-Day parade sporting a new nose cap (which is indicative of the use of multiple independent re-entry vehicles).
3. DF-26 ASBM/IRBM
Coming almost as a complete surprise during the Sept. 3 parades, the DF-26 is apparently an IRBM that can also function as an anti-ship ballistic missile, thus placing any potential vessels within >3000 km of the Chinese coastline at risk of attack. Perhaps what is even more surprising than its appearance is the fact that the missile has been confirmed as operational.
2. Divine Eagle UAV
The Divine Eagle is probably the first of its kind, incorporating a plethora of sensors (including seven AESA radars) and comprehensive datalinking capabilities to detect multiple low-observable aircraft, ground targets, naval targets, and share that information amongst key PLAAF assets. With a wingspan of 40-50 meters, it is the largest UAV built so far.
1. J-11D "Sino Super Flanker"
The J-11D flew on April 29, 2015, and represented, along with the J-16, the next-generation of Chinese Flanker derivatives. Equipped with an AESA radar from the 14th Institute, airframe enhancements, extra hardpoints, and next-generation ECM/EW equipment, 140 kN engines, and other enhancements, this provides the PLAAF with an unprecedented tool for air dominance.
Other notable mentions:
- EW variant of J-16 flew
- CH-5 UCAV flew (payload: 900 kg)
- First flight of Long March 6
- First flight of Long March 11
- Type 001A module assembly
- Type 901 AOR launched
- Possible larger (land-based) variant of YJ-18 spotted
5. Hypersonic drone
In September, it was reported that the Chinese have tested a Mach 4 capable drone from a H-6 carrier aircraft. The drone is equipped with a revolutionary combined tubojet-ramjet engine. The Chinese have been reported to be developing (and possibly have tested) scramjet-powered vehicles as well as variable-cycle engines.
4. DF-5B MIRV ICBM
Although US defense analysts have been predicting this for quite some time now, it came as a bit of shock when the DF-5B made its appearance at the Chinese VJ-Day parade sporting a new nose cap (which is indicative of the use of multiple independent re-entry vehicles).
3. DF-26 ASBM/IRBM
Coming almost as a complete surprise during the Sept. 3 parades, the DF-26 is apparently an IRBM that can also function as an anti-ship ballistic missile, thus placing any potential vessels within >3000 km of the Chinese coastline at risk of attack. Perhaps what is even more surprising than its appearance is the fact that the missile has been confirmed as operational.
2. Divine Eagle UAV
The Divine Eagle is probably the first of its kind, incorporating a plethora of sensors (including seven AESA radars) and comprehensive datalinking capabilities to detect multiple low-observable aircraft, ground targets, naval targets, and share that information amongst key PLAAF assets. With a wingspan of 40-50 meters, it is the largest UAV built so far.
1. J-11D "Sino Super Flanker"
The J-11D flew on April 29, 2015, and represented, along with the J-16, the next-generation of Chinese Flanker derivatives. Equipped with an AESA radar from the 14th Institute, airframe enhancements, extra hardpoints, and next-generation ECM/EW equipment, 140 kN engines, and other enhancements, this provides the PLAAF with an unprecedented tool for air dominance.
Other notable mentions:
- EW variant of J-16 flew
- CH-5 UCAV flew (payload: 900 kg)
- First flight of Long March 6
- First flight of Long March 11
- Type 001A module assembly
- Type 901 AOR launched
- Possible larger (land-based) variant of YJ-18 spotted
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