Predictably after that high speed running tests have been observed, the 5th generation Chinese fighter J-20B, a two-seater version of the aircraft from Chengdu, made its first flight this Friday, November 5, afternoon. The information was confirmed by some local sources relayed by Chinese social networks. The prototype, registered 2031, was even photographed during its take-off run, as the main photo of the article shows.
For a long time, two-seater versions of fighter planes were intended for pilot training and their operational transformation. But with the arrival of particularly realistic simulators, the need to secure the handling of an aircraft for a new pilot by installing an experienced instructor in the rear seat is no longer necessary. And the J-20B, like the F-15E or the Rafale B, will not take on board an instructor pilot in the rear seat, but a second crew member, pilot or weapon system officer, with the aim of sharing the workload on board the aircraft, particularly during the most demanding missions. more trying. Several indications thus suggest that one of the functions of the new J-20B will notably be to implement and control several combat drones acting for the benefit of the piloted aircraft, by transporting sensors but also weaponry, so as to cover a larger perimeter, and to increase the operational capacity and firepower of the aircraft.
75% of this article remains to read,
Subscribe to access it!
The Classic subscriptions provide access to
articles in their full version, and without advertising,
from 6,90 €.
Newsletter subscription
Register for the Meta-Defense Newsletter to receive the
latest fashion articles daily or weekly