- Yes
- No
Background
Spoiler
This is the initial version of at least three iterations labeled with the suffix ‘B’. The decision to transform the Q-5 into a naval variant was influenced by previous unsuccessful attempts to convert J-5 fighters for torpedo-carrying purposes. Taking this into consideration, the PLANAF (People’s Liberation Army Naval Air Force) opted to modify the Q-5 for this specific role, and it is believed that the studies commenced in 1965. Three aircraft frames were altered to accommodate two torpedoes on reinforced pylons. After achieving promising results, the PLAN command sanctioned the Q-5B development program in 1968, which introduced certain modifications to the aircraft structure. Reports on this matter are conflicting, but the torpedo-bomber showcased a completely redesigned, peculiarly shaped, and rather unattractive forward fuselage ahead of the intakes, along with a simple nose radome. This front section was angled downwards by 5 degrees, and the pilot’s seat was slightly elevated to enhance the forward and downward visibility. The wings were capable of carrying two Yu-2 torpedoes, or alternatively, 1,000 kg or 1,500 kg free-fall bombs. Consequently, the landing gear had to be reinforced to support the additional weight. The wing area was also enlarged to enhance aerodynamic performance during low-level flight with heavy loads. Additionally, two WP-6A turbojets with afterburners, providing a thrust of 36.8 kN, were installed. To achieve the desired operational range of 2,120 km, the weapons bay was replaced with an internal fuel tank. Furthermore, a Jia-13 radar, a Doppler navigation radar, and a No. 45 optical sight were incorporated into the design.
The initial Q-5Yi prototype, possibly identified as “31124” and currently exhibited at Datangshan, undertook its inaugural flight on 29 September 1970 under the command of Tan Shikun. It is highly probable that this particular aircraft never carried a functional radar, making it the sole prototype of its kind. The existence of additional machines and their flight operations remains unverified, although some sources mention the delivery of six aircraft to the PLANAF. However, the flight testing phase lasted merely three months and was deemed unsuccessful, primarily due to sluggish advancements in the avionics system. Consequently, it is plausible that this aircraft model lacked the capability to execute an effective torpedo attack.
Technical Data
Specifications
Length - 15.278 m
Height - 4.33 m
Wingspan - 9.68 m
Empty Weight - 6,494 kg
Gross Weight - 9,630 kg
Max Takeoff Weight - 11,750 kg
Engine - 2 x WP-6A Turbojets (29.42 Kn Dry, 36.78 Kn Afterburning)
Max Speed - 1,210 km/h
Cruising Speed - 850 km/h
Service Ceiling - 16,500 m
Range - 2,120 km (With drop tanks)
Crew - 1 Pilot
Armament
2 x 23mm Type 23 cannon (120 rpg)
2 x Yu-2 Torpedoes
2 x 1,000 kg bombs
2 x 1,500 kg bombs
2 x (2 x 7) Type 90-1 rockets
Avionics
Jia-13 Radar (317)
Specifications
Antenna: elliptic paraboloid monopulse antenna, AC motor drives, angular rate gyro feedback. Stabilised in pitch and roll.
Transmitter: Magnetron, 50kW peak transmit power (307A -70kW)
Receiver: three-channel monopulse receiver
Search range: 20,60 km
Search limits: ± 45° azimuth, elevation +20°, -38°
Search Area: 90° × 10°; 14° × 10 °
Tracking range: 0.65 - 18km
angular accuracy: RMSE 5000
Operating height: 150 ~ 17000m
Operating frequency: 9.37GHz (307A - 15 GHz)
Pulse repetition frequency: 800Hz
Pulse width: 1μs (307A - 0.75μs)
Beam width: horizontal 3.4°, vertical 5.8°
Antenna gain 30.5dB, horizontal polarization
Receiver noise factor: 11dB (307A - 7dB)
IF frequency: 30MHz (307A - 60MHz)
IF Bandwidth: 2.5MHz
Display graphics: eccentric P-type, tracking symbol display
Power supply AC: 115V, 400Hz, single-phase 1000VA, phase 700VA, DC: 28V, 100W
Weight: 120kg (excluding cables and converters 8502.40.00) (307A - 90kg)
Images
Q-5Yi 31124
Sources
Spoiler
(Book) Dragon’s Wings, Chinese Fighter and Bomber Aircraft development - Page 163
(Book) Encyclopedia of Chinese Aircraft, Vol.3 - Page 144-145
(Book) Chinese Aircraft China’s Aviation Industry Since 1951
