Red Dragon 'Flankers': China'S Prolific 'Flanker' Family

The Sukhoi Su-27 is a highly capable fourth-generation fighter that was chosen by China to meet the Peoples Liberation Army Air Forces requirement. Russia received a multi-billion-dollar contract, and China obtained a license manufacturing contract. China developed indigenous variants of the 'Flanker' with improved avionics, weapons, and engines, which Russia regards as a breach of the formal agreement. This book provides a full overview of the Chinese 'Flanker family, describing the genesis of this family and providing a review of the variants, their systems, and capabilities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2022
Publisher: Harpia Publishing, LLC

The Sukhoi Su-27, renowned for its exceptional performance, stands as one of the most formidable fourth-generation fighters in existence. However, its development history is equally remarkable, with a captivating narrative that took on new industrial and political dimensions when the Su-27 was selected by China to fulfill the Peoples Liberation Army Air Forces (PLAAF) requirement for a cutting-edge fourth-generation fighter. This strategic partnership proved to be a win-win-situation, as Russia secured a multi-billion-dollar contract, while the PLAAF acquired a true high-end fourth-generation fighter for the first time.

Yet, the journey that followed was a complex and multifaceted drama, with both sides presenting their own narratives. After the direct sale from Russia, China entered into a contract for license manufacturing, which initially yielded mixed results. As manufacturing procedures evolved and improved, the licensed J-11 fighters no longer met the PLAAFs stringent requirements. Consequently, China embarked on the development of indigenous variants of the Su-27, equipped with enhanced avionics, weapons, and engines. These indigenous variants, often referred to as the "Sino-Flankers," have sparked controversy, with Russia viewing them as a breach of the formal agreement.

Regardless of whether these Sino-Flankers can be classified as illegal copies, evolved clones, or indigenous versions, it is undeniable that the Chinese "Flanker series" has undergone a remarkable transformation. It has evolved into a diverse range of variants, some of which may not have direct counterparts in Russia. This book offers a comprehensive overview of the Chinese "Flanker family," tracing its origins and providing a detailed examination of the various variants, their systems, and capabilities. It also delves into the ways in which the PLAAF utilizes these aircraft to enhance its operational effectiveness.

The Sukhoi Su-27's selection by China and its subsequent development into the Sino-Flanker series have had far-reaching implications for both countries and the global aerospace industry. It has showcased the immense potential of strategic partnerships and the complexities involved in technology transfer and intellectual property rights. As the Sino-Flanker family continues to evolve and adapt, it will be intriguing to observe how it shapes the future of air warfare and international relations.

Weight: 1042g
Dimension: 214 x 280 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781950394104