F-7Aircraft

During 30 March 1962, the Soviet Union and China signed a technology transference arrangement pertaining to the MiG-21. Allegedly, while various kits, components, completed aircraft and associated documents were delivered to the Shenyang Aircraft Factory, the design documentation was incomplete, thus Chinese designers made efforts to reverse engineer the aircraft. While the two aircraft are greatly similar, areas of difference include the hydraulic systems and internal fuel arrangements. During March 1964, domestic production of the J-7 reportedly commenced at the Shenyang Aircraft Factory, however due to various factors, including the Cultural Revolution, mass production was only truly achieved during the 1980s. Numerous models of the J-7 were developed, featuring improvements in areas such as the armaments, avionics, and wing design. It has been principally operated by the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) while numerous other operators have also procured the type. Production of the J-7 was terminated during 2013. To date, the type remains in service with both the PLAAF and multiple export customers.[3][4