In the bustling hangars of Chengdu City on the Chinese mainland, veteran ex-designer Xie Pin, aged 86, has pulled back the curtain on the secrets of the J-10 fighter jet series, famously known as "Vigorous Dragon" ✈️.
Over a career spanning more than 40 years, Xie Pin played a key role in developing this iconic aircraft. Today, the J-10 fighter jet impresses with its collaborative combat capabilities, long-range multi-target strikes, and precise ground attack modes—even in challenging electromagnetic conditions.
The aircraft’s design is as innovative as it is timeless. Its canard wing configuration creates a vortex when it meets the main wing’s leading edge, boosting airflow speed and lift. This clever engineering trick has kept the jet both modern and agile.
Stealth is another area where the J-10 excels. The cockpit is coated with a special film to reduce its radar cross-section, and its unique "clamshell" intake—located beneath the fuselage—minimizes drag while keeping weight low. Upgraded radar systems now allow it to detect targets up to 200 kilometers away, and with 11 external hardpoints, it can carry a variety of weapons.
This fascinating look at the J-10’s technology shows that even designs introduced over four decades ago can evolve into modern marvels. A blend of classic engineering with cutting-edge upgrades, the J-10 is a true inspiration for the future of aviation! 🚀
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Former designer decodes secrets of China's J-10 fighter jet series
cgtn.com
