FT-7BGI: China-Pakistan Advanced Jet Trainer

FT-7BGI: China-Pakistan Advanced Jet Trainer

FT-7BGI Fighter-Trainer Pakistan Air Force

PAF FT-7BGI in flight

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

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