FT-7BGI Fighter-Trainer Pakistan Air Force
The FT-7BGI is an advanced two-seat combat trainer variant of the Chinese Chengdu J-7 (MiG-21 derivative), specifically developed for the Pakistan Air Force. This "Glass Cockpit" version represents the ultimate evolution of the J-7/FT-7 series, combining trainer functionality with light combat capabilities.
Development History
Evolution from J-7 to FT-7BGI
- Origin: Derived from Soviet MiG-21 (J-7 is Chinese licensed version)
- FT-7 Variants: Initial FT-7 (1980s) → FT-7P (1990s) → FT-7PG (2000s) → FT-7BGI (2010s)
- BGI Specifics: "B" denotes two-seat trainer, "G" for Glass cockpit, "I" for improved avionics
- Manufacturer: Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (China) with Pakistan Aeronautical Complex involvement
Technical Specifications
Dimensions & Performance
- Length: 14.88 m (48.8 ft)
- Wingspan: 7.15 m (23.5 ft)
- Max Speed: Mach 2.05 (2,175 km/h)
- Range: 1,450 km (combat radius with drop tanks)
- Service Ceiling: 18,000 m (59,000 ft)
Avionics Suite
- Cockpit: Glass cockpit with 3 MFDs (Multi-Function Displays)
- HUD: Wide-angle Head-Up Display
- Radar: KLJ-6E Pulse-Doppler radar (60km detection range)
- Navigation: GPS/INS integrated system
Powerplant
- Engine: Guizhou WP-7B turbojet
- Thrust: 43.15 kN (9,700 lbf) dry; 59.82 kN (13,448 lbf) with afterburner
- Fuel Capacity: 2,300 kg internal + 720 kg drop tank
Operational Capabilities
| Role |
Capability |
Weapons/Systems |
| Advanced Training |
Transition to 4th-gen fighters (JF-17, F-16) |
Simulated weapons modes, ACM training |
| Light Combat |
Limited air-to-air and ground attack |
PL-5EII, PL-9C AAMs; unguided rockets/bombs |
| Electronic Warfare |
Basic radar warning receiver |
BM/KG300G self-protection jammer pod |
PAF Service History
Pakistan Air Force Deployment
- Introduction: 2010-2015 (estimated)
- Units: Mainly operates with Combat Commanders School (CCS)
- Quantity: ~20-25 aircraft in service
- Upgrades: Ongoing avionics improvements by PAC Kamra
Training Advantages
- Prepares pilots for JF-17 Thunder transition
- High-speed handling characteristics
- Cost-effective operation compared to frontline fighters
Comparison with Similar Trainers
| Aircraft |
FT-7BGI |
K-8P |
T-37 (Retired) |
| Max Speed |
Mach 2.05 |
Mach 0.8 |
Mach 0.7 |
| Combat Capability |
Limited |
Very Limited |
None |
| Training Role |
Advanced |
Intermediate |
Basic |
