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Guizhou FT-7P.
FT-7P is the export version of JJ-7A (similar to Mig-21US but with a smaller vertical tailfin and twin ventral stabilizing fins). Developed by Guizhou Aviation Aircraft Corporation (GAAC) in 1990, it was modified specifically for PAF (HUD, air data computer, Martin Baker MK 10L ejection seats, BM/KJ 8602 RWR, twin belly 23mm cannons and five hard points) in order to provide pilot training for the single seat F-7P light fighters which were produced by CAC. Compared to JJ-7A, FT-7P has the fuselage stretched by 610mm to create space for additional fuel tank and an internal gun.
The maximum take-off weight has been increased to 9,550kg and internal fuel capacity to 2,800l. The domestic JJ-7A (K/JJL7A) was developed in mid-90s but lacking the RWR antennas. Over a hundred were produced and the last batch of JJ-7A was delivered to PLAAF in March 2017. Recent images indicated that some have been installed with a 23mm gun pod underneath its belly.
However the aircraft has been suffering poor handling at a low speed. Besides PAF, Iranian AF also acquired a number of FT-7Ps in the 90s to support its F-7N fighter fleet. With the delivery of the new F-7PGs to PAF, a trainer version dubbed FT-7PG featuring improved avionics was upgraded from the existing FT-7P fleet to save time and cut cost. Its prototype first flew in March 2002. 9 FT-7PGs were delivered to PAF.
A similar version dubbed FT-7BG was developed for Bangladesh AF to support its F-7BG fleet. A total of 4 were delivered in 2006. Recent images (March 2013) indicated another batch of 4 FT-7BGI were just delivered to support its new F-7BGI fleet.
Nigerian AF also ordered 3 FT-7NIs in 2005 to support their F-7NIs. All were delivered by April 2010. Furthermore, 2 FT-7NGs were delivered to Namibian AF in October 2006 to support their F-7NMs. JJ-7A series are expected to be replaced by the new JL-9 Aircraft.
© Zohaib Malik