New Chinese Fighter Plane

The Chinese are apparently quite proud of their new-generation fighter plane. They want everybody to know about it.


Chinese Xiaolong 04 Fighter
From Xinhuanet.com:

An advanced version of the China-developed new-generation fighter plane, the Xiaolong/FC-4, succeeded in its first flight on Friday in southwest China's Sichuan Province.

Based on previous models, the Xiaolong/FC-1 and FC-3, the FC-4 is equipped with advanced electronics and weapons systems, which improve its combat capabilities, say experts.

The success of the 16-minute test flight marks a significant step in China's aviation industry, and makes mass production possible.

The Xiaolong series is a multipurpose light fighter aircraft developed by the China Aviation Industry Corporation I(CAIC-I), the Chengdu Aircraft Group Corp. and China Aero Technology Import and Export Corporation.

The plane is reportedly being produced as a low-cost, high tech weapons platform for export. From the picture, I see a similarity to the old F-4 Phantoms the U.S. Navy flew during the Vietnam War. Regarding its modern and high technology features, the Xiaolong/FC-4 seems to lack any of the customary contours of a stealth aircraft.

Nevertheless, it's probably reasonable to assume that these fighter jets will show up in the air forces of Venezuela, Iran, Syria, North Korea, and others.