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{{short description|Chinese supersonic advanced training and light combat aircraft}}
{{short description|Chinese supersonic advanced training and light combat aircraft}}
{{More citations needed|date=January 2007}}
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout. -->
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout. -->
{|{{Infobox aircraft begin
{|{{Infobox aircraft begin
|name = JL-10 (L-15)
| name = JL-10 Falcon
|image = File:Hongdu_L-15_Falcon.jpg
| image = File:Hongdu_L-15_Falcon.jpg
|caption =
| caption =
}}{{Infobox aircraft type
}}{{Infobox aircraft type
|type = [[Trainer (aircraft)#Lead-in fighter training|Lead-in fighter trainer]] / [[Light combat aircraft]]
| type = Advanced [[jet trainer]] <br /> [[Light combat aircraft]]
|manufacturer = [[Hongdu Aviation Industry Corporation]]
| manufacturer = [[Hongdu Aviation Industry Corporation]]
|designer =
| designer =
|first flight = March 2006<ref name="asiatimes_makichuk_2020">{{cite web |last1=Makichuk |first1=Dave |title=China's L-15 Falcon: Cut-rate warfare on a budget |url=https://asiatimes.com/2020/01/chinas-l-15-falcon-cut-rate-warfare-on-a-budget/ |website=[[Asia Times]] |date=2020-01-03 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref>
| first flight = March 13, 2006<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/>
| introduced = 2013<ref name="asiatimes_makichuk_2020">{{cite web |last1=Makichuk |first1=Dave |title=China's L-15 Falcon: Cut-rate warfare on a budget |url=https://asiatimes.com/2020/01/chinas-l-15-falcon-cut-rate-warfare-on-a-budget/ |website=[[Asia Times]] |date=2020-01-03 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref>
⚫
| retired =
|introduced = 2013<ref name="asiatimes_makichuk_2020"/>
⚫
| statistics = In service
⚫
|retired =
⚫
| primary user = [[People's Liberation Army Air Force]]
⚫
|statistics = In service
|primary user = [[People's Liberation Army Air Force]]
| more users = [[United Arab Emirates Air Force]]
| produced =
|more users = [[United Arab Emirates Air Force]]
|produced =
| number built =
⚫
| developed from =
|number built =
⚫
| variants with their own articles =
⚫
|developed from =
⚫
|variants with their own articles =
}}
}}
|}
|}
[[File:L15_(17810345710).jpg|thumb|L-15 during a handover ceremony]]
[[File:L15_(17810345710).jpg|thumb|L-15 during a handover ceremony]]


The '''Hongdu JL-10''' also known as the '''L-15 Falcon''' ({{lang|zh|猎鹰}}) is a supersonic [[Trainer (aircraft)#Advanced training|advanced jet trainer]] and [[light combat aircraft]] being developed by Nanchang-based [[Hongdu Aviation Industry Corporation]] (HAIC) to meet the Chinese [[People's Liberation Army Air Force]] (PLAAF) and [[People's Liberation Army Naval Air Force]] (PLANAF) lead-in fighter trainer (LIFT) requirements, as well as next-generation training and light combat needs for foreign customers.<ref name="163.com">{{cite web |author=2017-04-14 17:55:45 |url=http://3g.163.com/dy/article/CI0IK21N0515AJJF.html |title=赞比亚购6架后又追加20架：仅售不到两千万的中国"猎鹰"_手机网易网 |website=3g.163.com |date=2017-04-14 |access-date=2019-03-21 |archive-date=2019-03-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306043927/http://3g.163.com/dy/article/CI0IK21N0515AJJF.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
The '''Hongdu JL-10''', also initially known as '''Hongdu L-15 Falcon''',<ref>{{cite web |title=猎鹰L15高级教练机 |url=https://www.hongdu.com.cn/c/2015-08-05/527207.shtml |website=Hongdu Aviation Industry Group |language=zh |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref> is a supersonic [[Trainer (aircraft)#Advanced training|advanced jet trainer]] and [[light combat aircraft]] developed by [[Hongdu|Hongdu Aviation Industry Corporation]] (HAIC).<ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_spot"/><ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_aw"/> It is used by the [[People's Liberation Army Air Force]] (PLAAF) as a [[lead-in fighter trainer]] (LIFT).<ref name="casi_solen_feb_2021"/>


==Development==
==Design and development==
[[China Aviation Industry Corporation II]] (AVIC II) was working toward a new advanced trainer for the People's Liberation Army by 2000; that year AVIC II contracted the [[Yakovlev]] Design Bureau from [[Russia]] - and designer of the [[Yakovlev Yak-130|Yak-130]] trainer - as a technical and scientific consultant for the L-15 programme.<ref>{{cite web |title=YAK-130 combat trainer of new century |url=http://www.yak.ru/eng/firm/art_switch.php?art=4 |date=June 2005 |website=Yakovlev |access-date=2021-08-03 |archive-date=2015-10-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016145925/http://www.yak.ru/ENG/FIRM/art_switch.php?art=4|url-status=dead}}</ref> The L-15 would compete with the [[Guizhou JL-9]] developed in parallel by [[China Aviation Industry Corporation I]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Zhuhai 2004 - Chinese jet trainer pair square up |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/zhuhai-2004-chinese-jet-trainer-pair-square-up/57534.article |website=Flight Global |date=2004-11-08 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref>
[[China Aviation Industry Corporation II]] (AVIC II) was working toward a new advanced trainer for the [[People's Liberation Army]] (PLA) by 2000; that year AVIC II contracted the [[Yakovlev]] Design Bureau from [[Russia]] — and designer of the [[Yakovlev Yak-130|Yak-130]] trainer — as a technical and scientific consultant for the L-15 programme.<ref>{{cite web |title=YAK-130 combat trainer of new century |url=http://www.yak.ru/eng/firm/art_switch.php?art=4 |date=June 2005 |website=Yakovlev |access-date=2021-08-03 |archive-date=2015-10-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016145925/http://www.yak.ru/ENG/FIRM/art_switch.php?art=4}}</ref> The L-15 would compete with the [[Guizhou JL-9]] developed in parallel by [[China Aviation Industry Corporation I]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Zhuhai 2004 - Chinese jet trainer pair square up |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/zhuhai-2004-chinese-jet-trainer-pair-square-up/57534.article |website=Flight Global |date=2004-11-08 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref> The prototype was completed in September 2005<ref>{{cite web |last1=Francis |first1=Leithen |last2=Sobie |first2=Brendan |title=Hongdu completes L-15 prototype assembly |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/hongdu-completes-l-15-prototype-assembly/62865.article |website=Flight Global |date=2005-09-26 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref> and first flew on March 13, 2006.<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/> The initial variants were a subsonic advanced jet trainer and a supersonic advanced fighter trainer.<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/>


Development of the L-15B, a supersonic variant for LIFT, was announced in 2010.<ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_spot"/> It first flew on December 21, 2017.<ref name="ain_chen_2018-03"/>
HAIG unveiled a full-scale [[mock-up]] of its early prototype the L-15 advanced [[lead-in fighter trainer]] (LIFT) in the [[China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition|2004 Zhuhai Airshow]]. The two-seat, two-engine L-15 featured the latest advanced technologies developed by China, such as the digital quadruple [[fly-by-wire]] (FBW), [[glass cockpit]] (two multi-color head down displays for both the front and rear cockpit, and an additional head-up display for the front cockpit) and [[hands-on-throttle-and-stick]] (HOTAS) [[flight control]]. The look-down field of view for the front cockpit is 18°, and 6° for the rear cockpit, exceeding the US requirement. The aerodynamic performance of the aircraft is enhanced by its large [[leading edge extensions]] (LEX) design, which gives a maximum [[angle of attack]] of 30°. This is very useful when trying to simulate the maneuvers of advanced [[Fourth generation jet fighter|fourth-generation fighters]] such as [[Chengdu J-10|J-10]], [[JF-17 Thunder|JF-17]] and [[Shenyang J-11|J-11]], as well as for newest fifth generation fighter like J-20 and J-31. JL-9/FTC-2000 Mountain Eagle trainer jet from Guizhou Aircraft Industry Corporation (GAIC) is a direct competitor of the JL-10. JL-10 has a wide range of more advanced features comparing JL-9, but JL-9 is significant cheaper and its development and production would be fully indigenous, while early batches of JL-10 still rely on AI-222 series turbofan engine from Ukraine before an indigenous update is ready.<ref name="L15-JL9-trainer-jet-competition">{{cite web |url=http://airforceworld.com/pla/english/L15-advanced-trainer-jet-china.html |title=L15 and JL9 trainer jet competition, China PLAAF |website=AirForceWorld.com |access-date=29 Aug 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111128065129/http://www.airforceworld.com/pla/english/L15-advanced-trainer-jet-china.html |archive-date=2011-11-28 }}</ref>


The [[China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation]] (CATIC) ordered 12 L-15 jet trainers in November 2012; it was not known whether these were for — or would be delivered to — a third-party.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Hoyle |first1=Craig |title=CATIC lines up first international L-15 sale after agreeing to buy 12 trainers |magazine=[[Flight International]] |volume=182 |issue=5367 |date=2012-11-20 |page=23}}</ref>
With the JL-10, student pilots will be able to complete mission [[flight training]] and advanced [[combat training]], as well as complete all basic jet flight training courses. The aircraft also has six (four under-wing and two wingtip) [[Aircraft pylon|pylons]] to carry various [[Air-to-air missile|air-to-air]] and [[air-to-ground]] weapons. If necessary, it can serve in the lightweight attack role with minor modifications, carrying up to 3.5 tons of armament.<ref name="sina.cn">{{cite web|author=sina_mobile |url=https://mil.sina.cn/sd/2018-08-27/detail-ihifuvph8146505.d.html |title=我军教练10研发路途一波三折 曾险因发动机问题下马_手机新浪网 |website=Mil.sina.cn |date=2018-08-27 |access-date=2019-03-21}}</ref>


⚫
[[Zambia]] ordered 6 advanced fighter trainers as the L-15Z<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/> in 2014 for {{USD|100 million}};<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Fisher|first=Richard D. Jr.|title=Zambia to receive first Hongdu L-15 trainer|journal=Jane's Defence Weekly|volume=53|issue=8|date=30 December 2015|publisher=Jane's Information Group|location=Surrey, UK|issn=0265-3818}}</ref> they were delivered in 2016<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09">{{cite web |last1=Donald |first1=David |title=China's L-15 Jet Displayed by Zambia In South Africa |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2016-09-16/chinas-l-15-jet-displayed-zambia-south-africa |website=Aviation International News |date=2016-09-16 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref> and 2017.<ref name="ain_chen_2018-03">{{cite web |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-03-07/uruguay-interested-chinese-l-15-trainer |title=Uruguay Interested in Chinese L-15 Trainer |first=Chen |last=Chuanren |website=Aviation International News |date=2018-03-07}}</ref>
Each of the first two units (#01 & #02) are powered by two [[Ivchenko-Progress]] [[ZMKB (Progress) DV-2|DV-2]] engines, which do not have [[afterburner]]s, and these two aircraft thus do not have the capability to reach supersonic speed. The third unit (#03) is powered by a pair of an improved version of the DV-2, the DV-2F, that has afterburners, so that it can attain supersonic speed. The subsequent production units are expected to be powered by Ukraine's Ivchenko-Progress [[AI-222K-25F]] [[turbofan]] engines with afterburners once a co-production license is obtained by the 608 Institute. Ivchenko-Progress was able to increase the thrust of the AI-222-28F (thrust 4500&nbsp;kg afterburning) and AI-222-30F (5000&nbsp;kg thrust afterburning) engines. The latter two engines may be used to equip the JL-10 or other Chinese aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://en.airforceworld.com/a/20150624/144.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=2015-06-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150702181419/http://en.airforceworld.com/a/20150624/144.html |archive-date=2015-07-02 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Meanwhile, according to various Chinese reports, JL-10s with updated Guizhou FWS-17 engines had already undergone test flights.<ref name="sina.cn"/>


The first L-15 in PLAAF colors was seen in 2016.<ref name="ain_yeo_2016-09">{{cite web |last1=Yeo |first1=Mike |title=China's Air Force Apparently Receives First L-15 Jet Trainer |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2016-09-01/chinas-air-force-apparently-receives-first-l-15-jet-trainer |website=Aviation International News |date=2016-09-01 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref> The PLA used a few L-15s for flight-test evaluation before 2018.<ref name="ain_chen_2018-03"/> The [[People's Liberation Army Navy]] received 12 L-15s in August 2018.<ref name="fg_waldron_2022-02">{{cite web |last1=Waldron |first1=Greg |title=Beijing boosts naval pilot training with L-15 acquisition |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/beijing-boosts-naval-pilot-training-with-l-15-acquisition/129243.article#:~:text=%E2%80%8BBeijing%20boosts%20naval%20pilot%20training%20with%20L%2D15%20acquisition,-By%20Greg%20Waldron&text=The%20training%20school%20of%20the,L%2D15%20advanced%20jet%20trainers. |website=Flight Global |date=2018-08-15 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref> The PLAAF began using the JL-10 for LIFT in 2019. Compared to the less sophisticated JL-9, the JL-10 reduces candidate and conversion training time for more recent PLAAF aircraft.<ref name="casi_solen_feb_2021">{{cite web |last1=Solen |first1=Derek |title=Initial Fighter Pilot Training in the PLA Air Force |url=https://airuniversity.af.edu/Portals/10/CASI/documents/Research/PLAAF/2021-02-16%20Initial%20Fighter%20Pilot%20Training.pdf?ver=CWRhXQPS7sgn1voTIxrdOw%3d%3d |publisher=China Aerospace Studies Institute |website=United States Air Force Air University |date=February 2021 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref>
In June 2013, the AJT condition of L-15 finalized the design and would be operated by PLAAF with a formal name JL-10.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.cjdby.net/junbeidongtai/2013-06-12/military-4229.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=2013-06-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620105329/http://www.cjdby.net/junbeidongtai/2013-06-12/military-4229.html |archive-date=2013-06-20 |url-status=dead }}</ref> On July 1, 2013, the first batch of JL-10 began delivery to the PLAAF. Chinese Air Force and later Naval Air Force are highly satisfied with the aircraft's all-around performance, high reliability, cost-effectiveness, as well as its great multi-role update potentials, easy maintainability, and a service life of over 10,000 flying hours.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.cjdby.net/junbeidongtai/2013-07-01/military-4448.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=2013-07-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130704055704/http://www.cjdby.net/junbeidongtai/2013-07-01/military-4448.html |archive-date=2013-07-04 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="sohu.com">{{cite web|url=http://m.sohu.com/a/281601623_614127|title=1个月交付7架，洪都在卯足了劲制造猎鹰高级教练机！_手机搜狐网|website=M.sohu.com}}</ref>


On 23 February 2022, the [[United Arab Emirates]] announced its intention to buy 12 L-15s, with an option for 36 more.<ref>{{Cite web |author1=أحمد النعيمي |author2=زكريا محيي الدين |title=وزارة الدفاع تنوي شراء 12 طائرة صينية من طراز |trans-title=The Ministry of Defense intends to buy 12 Chinese L15 aircraft |url=http://wam.ae/ar/details/1395303023646 |date=2022-02-23 |language=ar |access-date=2022-02-23 |website=Emirates News Agency}}</ref><ref name="fg_hoyle_2022-02">{{cite web |last1=Hoyle |first1=Craig |title=UAE poised to order up to 48 Chinese L-15 jet trainers |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/uae-poised-to-order-up-to-48-chinese-l-15-jet-trainers/147668.article#:~:text=China%20is%20close%20to%20finalising,L%2D15%20advanced%20jet%20trainers. |website=Flight Global |date=2022-02-23 |access-date=2022-04-18}}</ref> The value of the deal was not released, the Emirati newspaper [[The National (Abu Dhabi)|The National]] reported that China sells the L-15 for $10–15 million per unit.<ref>{{cite news|title=UAE's Ministry of Defence to buy L-15 Falcon jets from China|url=https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/government/2022/02/23/ministry-of-defence-to-buy-12-l15-chinese-aircraft/}}</ref>
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==Variants==
*'''L-15A''': AJT
*'''JL-10''': The designation in People's Liberation Army Air Force service.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.popsci.com/chinese-air-force-training-fighters-JL10|title=The Chinese Air Force is about to get a swarm of fighter jets for training pilots|website=Popular Science|date=18 March 2019}}</ref>
*'''JL-10H''':The designation in People's Liberation Army Navy service for training aircraft carrier pilots<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://eng.chinamil.com.cn/view/2018-08/06/content_9243119.htm|title = Chinese Navy commissions JL-10H advanced trainers - China Military}}</ref>
*'''L-15Z''': The designation in [[Zambian Air Force]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2016-09-16/chinas-l-15-jet-displayed-zambia-south-africa|title=China's L-15 Jet Displayed by Zambia In South Africa|first=David|last=Donald|website=Aviation International News}}</ref>
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*'''L-15AW''': Combat variant with 7 hardpoints.<ref name="FlightGlobalBandAW">{{cite web |last1=Waldron |first1=Greg |title=AVIC burnishes combat credentials of L-15 family |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/avic-burnishes-combat-credentials-of-l-15-family-453348/ |website=Flight Global |access-date=7 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181107124316/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/avic-burnishes-combat-credentials-of-l-15-family-453348/ |archive-date=7 November 2018 |location=Zhuhai |date=6 November 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>
*'''L-15B''': Export designation of JL-10H. Combat variant with afterburning engines, 9 hardpoints and capability to launch beyond-visual-range [[PL-12]] missile.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/airshow-china-avic-advanced-trainers-in-the-spotli-430985/|title=Airshow China : AVIC advanced trainers in the spotlight|first=Greg|last=Waldron|date=1 November 2016|website=Flightglobal.com|access-date=21 March 2019}}</ref><ref name="FlightGlobalBandAW"/>


==Operators==
==Design==
The L-15 uses [[fly-by-wire]] (FBW) and a [[glass cockpit]].<ref name="casi_solen_feb_2021"/>
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;{{PRC}}
*[[People's Liberation Army Air Force]] (First batch of JL-10 is commissioned in a training center of PLAAF in Eastern China, quantity is uncertain based from public information)


The prototypes were powered by [[Lotarev DV-2]] [[turbofan]]s.<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/>
In November 2012, an order for twelve JL-10s by an unknown customer was announced, due to be delivered in 2013.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=L-15s Sold|magazine=[[Air International]]|volume= 84|issue= 1|date=January 2013|page=15}}</ref> This batch of JL-10 began delivery to the customer on June 29, 2013.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.cjdby.net/junbeidongtai/2013-06-29/military-4426.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=2013-06-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130706030803/http://www.cjdby.net/junbeidongtai/2013-06-29/military-4426.html |archive-date=2013-07-06 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


The L-15A subsonic advanced jet trainer is powered by the [[Ivchenko-Progress AI-222|Ivchenko-Progress AI-222-25]]<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/> and has seven weapon hardpoints.<ref name="ain_chen_2018-03"/> The supersonic advanced fighter trainer variant is powered by the afterburning AI-222K-25.<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/> According to a Ukrainian source, 25% of the aircraft is composed of composite materials and its service life is 10,000 hours.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ukraine conveys first engines for L-15 trainer airplane to China|url=https://www.kyivpost.com/article/content/business/ukraine-conveys-first-engines-for-l-15-trainer-air-126787.html|publisher=[[Kyiv Post]]}}</ref>
⚫
*[[People's Liberation Army Naval Air Force]]


The L-15B light attack aircraft is powered by the AI-222K-25F<ref name="ain_yeo_2016-09"/> for a maximum speed of Mach 1.4.<ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_spot"/> Compared to the L-15A, the L-15B has shorter take-off and landing distances and two more hardpoints.<ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_aw"/>
In August 2018, according to the photos in the article, at least twelve JL-10 have been delivered to Navy Aviation university.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sohu.com/a/245202382_632518|title=海军航空大学已装备教练10，飞上航母培养舰载机飞行员指日可待|date=2018-08-04|website=www.sohu.com|access-date=2018-08-13}}</ref>
;{{flag|Zambia}}


The L-15A and L-15B use a [[Passive electronically scanned array|PESA]] radar.<ref name="ain_chen_2018-03"/><ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/>
⚫
*[[Zambian Air Force]] - It was reported in 2014 that Zambia had ordered 6 L-15s for US$100 million<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Fisher|first=Richard D., Jr.|title=Zambia to receive first Hongdu L-15 trainer|journal=Jane's Defence Weekly|volume=53|issue=8|date=30 December 2015|publisher=Jane's Information Group|location=Surrey, UK|issn=0265-3818}}</ref> and deliveries have completed in 2017.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-03-07/uruguay-interested-chinese-l-15-trainer|title=Uruguay Interested in Chinese L-15 Trainer|first=Chen|last=Chuanren|website=Aviation International News}}</ref> According to Chinese sources, Zambia had ordered at least another 6 L-15As and 12 L-15Bs.<ref name="163.com"/>


⚫
==Variants==
;{{flag|Ethiopia}}
⚫
*'''L-15AW''': Subsonic advanced jet trainer version with seven hardpoints. Previously marketed as '''L-15A'''.<ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_spot">{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/airshow-china-avic-advanced-trainers-in-the-spotli-430985/ |title=Airshow China: AVIC advanced trainers in the spotlight |first=Greg |last=Waldron |date=1 November 2016 |website=Flightglobal.com |access-date=21 March 2019}}</ref><ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_aw">{{cite web |last1=Waldron |first1=Greg |title=AVIC burnishes combat credentials of L-15 family |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/avic-burnishes-combat-credentials-of-l-15-family-453348/ |website=Flight Global |access-date=7 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181107124316/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/avic-burnishes-combat-credentials-of-l-15-family-453348/ |archive-date=7 November 2018 |location=Zhuhai |date=6 November 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>
*'''L-15 advanced fighter trainer''': Supersonic variant of the L-15A.<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/>
*'''L-15Z''': Designation of L-15 advanced fighter trainer in [[Zambian Air Force]] service.<ref name="ain_donald_2016-09"/>
*'''L-15B''': Supersonic light attack<ref name="ain_chen_2018-03"/> variant with nine hardpoints.<ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_spot"/>
*'''JL-10''': PLAAF designation.<ref name="ain_yeo_2016-09"/>
*'''JL-10J''': Carrier-compatible version of the JL-10. Used for catapult launch training and was seen on [[Type 003 aircraft carrier]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.twz.com/sea/chinas-new-aircraft-carrier-pulls-away-from-its-pier-ahead-of-sea-trials |title=China’s New Aircraft Carrier Pulls Away From Its Pier Ahead Of Sea Trials |website=The War Zone |date=29 April 2024 |first=Thomas |last=Newdick }}</ref>


==Operators==
*[[Ethiopia Air Force]]
⚫
;{{PRC}}
It was reported that the Ethiopia Air Force has ordered the L15 to replace its MiG-23 bought in 1990.<ref name="auto1">{{cite web|url=https://www.chinatimes.com/realtimenews/20220205002917-260417?chdtv|title=Ethiopia bought Chinese L-15 Trainer}}</ref>
*[[People's Liberation Army Air Force]]: 50+<ref>{{cite book |title=The Military Balance 2023 |publisher=[[International Institute for Strategic Studies]] |page=243}}</ref>
*[[People's Liberation Army Naval Air Force]]: 12<ref>{{cite book |title=The Military Balance 2021 |publisher=[[International Institute for Strategic Studies]] |page=254}}</ref>


;{{UAE}}
;{{flag|Zambia}}
*[[United Arab Emirates Air Force]]
*[[Zambian Air Force]]: 6<ref name="fg_hoyle_2022-02"/>


;{{UAE}}
The UAE Ministry of Defense announced on February 23, 2022, its intention to sign a contract with [[China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation|CATIC]] for 12 L15 aircraft, with an option to add 36 more of the same type in the future. <ref name=":0">{{Cite web|title=The Ministry of Defense intends to buy 12 Chinese L15 aircraft|url=http://wam.ae/ar/details/1395303023646|access-date=2022-02-23|website=wam}}</ref>
*[[United Arab Emirates Air Force]]: 12-48 (projected)<ref name="fg_hoyle_2022-02"/>

==Potential customers==
;{{flag|Pakistan}}
*[[Pakistan Air Force|Pakistan]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20100201/DEFFEAT06/2010318/Pakistan-Eyes-Acquisition-of-Chinese-Training-Aircraft|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120728230531/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20100201/DEFFEAT06/2010318/Pakistan-Eyes-Acquisition-of-Chinese-Training-Aircraft|url-status=dead|title=Pakistan Eyes Acquisition of Chinese Training Aircraft - Defense News…|date=28 July 2012|archive-date=28 July 2012|website=archive.is}}</ref> is interested in acquiring this aircraft to train its fighter pilots.

;{{flag|Uruguay}}
*[[Uruguayan Air Force]] is interested in acquiring eight L-15s. A team of officers was sent to China in August 2016 to evaluate the aircraft.<ref name="auto"/> The invitation was coordinated for October 2011 in an invitation extended by CATIC to the FAU command to form a committee including Air Marshall W. Martínez and staff.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.infodefensa.com/latam/2011/09/13/noticia-catic-invita-a-una-delegacion-de-la-fuerza-aerea-uruguaya-a-china-para-evaluar-aviones-de-combate.html|title=CATIC invita a una delegación de la Fuerza Aérea uruguaya a China para evaluar aviones de combate - Noticias Infodefensa América|date=13 September 2011|website=Infodefensa.com}}</ref>


;{{flag|Ethiopia}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=Military Watch Magazine |url=https://militarywatchmagazine.com/article/l15-replace-mig23s-ethiopia |access-date=2022-08-15 |website=militarywatchmagazine.com}}</ref>
;{{flag|Bolivia}}
*[[Bolivia]] The JL-10 is a candidate for the new fighter jet of the [[Bolivian Air Force]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.airway1.com/bolivia-air-force-is-looking-for-fighter-jets/|title = Bolivia Air Force is looking for fighter jets|date = 29 May 2021}}</ref>


==Specifications (L-15 AJT)==
==Specifications (L-15B)==
[[File:L-15 Top View 2.jpg|right|200px|L-15 top view]]
[[File:Hongdu L-15 top view 2.jpg|right|200px|L-15 top view]][https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/hongdu-l-15b-combat-trainer/]{{Aircraft specs
|ref=
{{Aircraft specs
|ref=Military-Today<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.military-today.com/aircraft/l15.htm|title=Hongdu L-15 Advanced Trainer |website=Military-today.com}}</ref>（estimate）<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://eng.chinamil.com.cn/view/2018-08/06/content_9243119.htm|title = Chinese Navy commissions JL-10H advanced trainers - China Military}}</ref>
L-15A<ref name="sina.cn"/>
|prime units?=met
|prime units?=met
<!--
<!--
General characteristics
General characteristics
-->
-->
|crew=2<ref name="ain_yeo_2016-09"/>
|crew=2
|length m=12.27
|length m=12.4
|length note=
|length note=
|span m=9.48
|span m=9.4
|span note=
|span note=
|height m=4.81
|height m=4.7
|height note=
|height note=
|wing area sqm=
|wing area sqm=
Line 98: Line 88:
|aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|airfoil=
|airfoil=
|empty weight kg=4960
|empty weight kg=
|empty weight note=
|empty weight note=
|gross weight kg=6500
|gross weight kg=
|gross weight note=
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight kg=9500
|max takeoff weight kg=11600
|max takeoff weight note=
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity=
|Fuel capacity=
|more general=
|more general=
<!--
<!--
Powerplant
Powerplant
-->
-->
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 number=2<ref name="ain_yeo_2016-09"/>
|eng1 name=[[Ivchenko-Progress AI-222K-25]] or AI-222-25F
|eng1 name=[[Ivchenko-Progress AI-222|Ivchenko-Progress AI-222K-25F]]
|eng1 type=[[afterburner|afterburning]] [[turbofan]] engines
|eng1 type=[[afterburner|afterburning]] [[turbofan]] engines<ref name="ain_yeo_2016-09"/>
|eng1 kw=<!-- prop engines -->
|eng1 kw=<!-- prop engines -->
|eng1 hp=<!-- prop engines -->
|eng1 hp=<!-- prop engines -->
Line 123: Line 113:
Performance
Performance
-->
-->
|max speed kmh=1715
|max speed kmh=
|max speed note=
|max speed note=
|max speed mach=1.4 (L15B)
|max speed mach=1.4<ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_spot"/>
|cruise speed kmh=
|cruise speed kmh=
|cruise speed note=
|cruise speed note=
Line 132: Line 122:
|never exceed speed kmh=
|never exceed speed kmh=
|never exceed speed note=
|never exceed speed note=
|range km=550
|range km=
|range note=<big>+</big>
|range note=
|combat range km=
|combat range km=
|combat range note=
|combat range note=
|ferry range km=3100
|ferry range km=2600
|ferry range note=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling m=16000
|ceiling m=
|ceiling note=
|ceiling note=
|g limits=<!-- aerobatic -->
|g limits=<!-- aerobatic -->
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|climb rate ms=200
|climb rate ms=
|climb rate note=
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|time to altitude=
Line 152: Line 142:
|thrust/weight=
|thrust/weight=
|more performance=
|more performance=
<!--
Armament
-->
|guns=
|bombs=LS-6 satellite guided bombs<ref name="ain_yeo_2016-09"/>
|rockets=
|missiles=[[PL-12|SD-10]] air-to-air missiles,<ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_aw"/> [[PL-8 (missile)|PL-8]] air-to-air missiles<ref name="ain_yeo_2016-09"/>
|hardpoints=9<ref name="fg_waldron_2018-11_aw"/>

|avionics=
|avionics=
*[[Passive electronically scanned array|PESA]] radar<ref name="ain_chen_2018-03"/>
*Unknown type [[Passive electronically scanned array|PESA]] radar,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://s12.postimg.org/5c5uprs99/20141212032332_74953.jpg |title=Archived copy |access-date=2015-10-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151122191826/http://s12.postimg.org/5c5uprs99/20141212032332_74953.jpg |archive-date=2015-11-22 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Likely with AESA radars for further updates.<ref name="sina.cn"/>
|hardpoint capacity=3500kg}}
}}


==See also==
==See also==
{{Portal|China|Aviation}}
{{Portal|China|Aviation}}
⚫
* [[Guizhou JL-9]]
{{aircontent
{{aircontent
|similar aircraft=
|similar aircraft=
Line 163: Line 163:
* [[Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master]]
* [[Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master]]
* [[Boeing T-7 Red Hawk]]
* [[Boeing T-7 Red Hawk]]
* [[TAI Hürjet]]
* [[HAL HLFT-42]]
⚫
* [[Guizhou JL-9]]
* [[KAI T-50 Golden Eagle]]
* [[KAI T-50 Golden Eagle]]
* [[TAI Hürjet]]
* [[Yakovlev Yak-130]]
* [[Yakovlev Yak-130]]
}}
}}

Latest revision as of 21:39, 8 June 2024

JL-10 Falcon
Role Advanced jet trainer
Light combat aircraft
Manufacturer Hongdu Aviation Industry Corporation
First flight March 13, 2006[1]
Introduction 2013[2]
Primary users People's Liberation Army Air Force
United Arab Emirates Air Force
L-15 during a handover ceremony

The Hongdu JL-10, also initially known as Hongdu L-15 Falcon,[3] is a supersonic advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft developed by Hongdu Aviation Industry Corporation (HAIC).[4][5] It is used by the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) as a lead-in fighter trainer (LIFT).[6]

Development

[edit]

China Aviation Industry Corporation II (AVIC II) was working toward a new advanced trainer for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) by 2000; that year AVIC II contracted the Yakovlev Design Bureau from Russia — and designer of the Yak-130 trainer — as a technical and scientific consultant for the L-15 programme.[7] The L-15 would compete with the Guizhou JL-9 developed in parallel by China Aviation Industry Corporation I.[8] The prototype was completed in September 2005[9] and first flew on March 13, 2006.[1] The initial variants were a subsonic advanced jet trainer and a supersonic advanced fighter trainer.[1]

Development of the L-15B, a supersonic variant for LIFT, was announced in 2010.[4] It first flew on December 21, 2017.[10]

The China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC) ordered 12 L-15 jet trainers in November 2012; it was not known whether these were for — or would be delivered to — a third-party.[11]

Zambia ordered 6 advanced fighter trainers as the L-15Z[1] in 2014 for US$100 million;[12] they were delivered in 2016[1] and 2017.[10]

The first L-15 in PLAAF colors was seen in 2016.[13] The PLA used a few L-15s for flight-test evaluation before 2018.[10] The People's Liberation Army Navy received 12 L-15s in August 2018.[14] The PLAAF began using the JL-10 for LIFT in 2019. Compared to the less sophisticated JL-9, the JL-10 reduces candidate and conversion training time for more recent PLAAF aircraft.[6]

On 23 February 2022, the United Arab Emirates announced its intention to buy 12 L-15s, with an option for 36 more.[15][16] The value of the deal was not released, the Emirati newspaper The National reported that China sells the L-15 for $10–15 million per unit.[17]

Design

[edit]

The L-15 uses fly-by-wire (FBW) and a glass cockpit.[6]

The prototypes were powered by Lotarev DV-2 turbofans.[1]

The L-15A subsonic advanced jet trainer is powered by the Ivchenko-Progress AI-222-25[1] and has seven weapon hardpoints.[10] The supersonic advanced fighter trainer variant is powered by the afterburning AI-222K-25.[1] According to a Ukrainian source, 25% of the aircraft is composed of composite materials and its service life is 10,000 hours.[18]

The L-15B light attack aircraft is powered by the AI-222K-25F[13] for a maximum speed of Mach 1.4.[4] Compared to the L-15A, the L-15B has shorter take-off and landing distances and two more hardpoints.[5]

The L-15A and L-15B use a PESA radar.[10][1]

Variants

[edit]
  • L-15AW: Subsonic advanced jet trainer version with seven hardpoints. Previously marketed as L-15A.[4][5]
  • L-15 advanced fighter trainer: Supersonic variant of the L-15A.[1]
  • L-15Z: Designation of L-15 advanced fighter trainer in Zambian Air Force service.[1]
  • L-15B: Supersonic light attack[10] variant with nine hardpoints.[4]
  • JL-10: PLAAF designation.[13]
  • JL-10J: Carrier-compatible version of the JL-10. Used for catapult launch training and was seen on Type 003 aircraft carrier.[19]

Operators

[edit]
 People's Republic of China
 Zambia
 United Arab Emirates
 Ethiopia[22]

Specifications (L-15B)

[edit]
L-15 top view
L-15 top view

[1]General characteristics

Performance

  • Maximum speed: Mach 1.4[4]
  • Ferry range: 2,600 km (1,600 mi, 1,400 nmi)

Armament

  • Hardpoints: 9[5] with a capacity of 3500kg
  • Missiles: SD-10 air-to-air missiles,[5] PL-8 air-to-air missiles[13]
  • Bombs: LS-6 satellite guided bombs[13]

Avionics

See also

[edit]

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Donald, David (2016-09-16). "China's L-15 Jet Displayed by Zambia In South Africa". Aviation International News. Retrieved 2022-04-18.
  2. ^ Makichuk, Dave (2020-01-03). "China's L-15 Falcon: Cut-rate warfare on a budget". Asia Times. Retrieved 2022-04-18.
  3. ^ "猎鹰L15高级教练机". Hongdu Aviation Industry Group (in Chinese). Retrieved 2022-04-18.
  4. ^ a b c d e f Waldron, Greg (1 November 2016). "Airshow China: AVIC advanced trainers in the spotlight". Flightglobal.com. Retrieved 21 March 2019.
  5. ^ a b c d e Waldron, Greg (6 November 2018). "AVIC burnishes combat credentials of L-15 family". Flight Global. Zhuhai. Archived from the original on 7 November 2018. Retrieved 7 November 2018.
  6. ^ a b c Solen, Derek (February 2021). "Initial Fighter Pilot Training in the PLA Air Force" (PDF). United States Air Force Air University. China Aerospace Studies Institute. Retrieved 2022-04-18.
  7. ^ "YAK-130 combat trainer of new century". Yakovlev. June 2005. Archived from the original on 2015-10-16. Retrieved 2021-08-03.
  8. ^ "Zhuhai 2004 - Chinese jet trainer pair square up". Flight Global. 2004-11-08. Retrieved 2022-04-18.
  9. ^ Francis, Leithen; Sobie, Brendan (2005-09-26). "Hongdu completes L-15 prototype assembly". Flight Global. Retrieved 2022-04-18.
  10. ^ a b c d e f g Chuanren, Chen (2018-03-07). "Uruguay Interested in Chinese L-15 Trainer". Aviation International News.
  11. ^ Hoyle, Craig (2012-11-20). "CATIC lines up first international L-15 sale after agreeing to buy 12 trainers". Flight International. Vol. 182, no. 5367. p. 23.
  12. ^ Fisher, Richard D. Jr. (30 December 2015). "Zambia to receive first Hongdu L-15 trainer". Jane's Defence Weekly. 53 (8). Surrey, UK: Jane's Information Group. ISSN 0265-3818.
  13. ^ a b c d e f g h Yeo, Mike (2016-09-01). "China's Air Force Apparently Receives First L-15 Jet Trainer". Aviation International News. Retrieved 2022-04-18.
  14. ^ Waldron, Greg (2018-08-15). "Beijing boosts naval pilot training with L-15 acquisition". Flight Global. Retrieved 2022-04-18.
  15. ^ أحمد النعيمي; زكريا محيي الدين (2022-02-23). "وزارة الدفاع تنوي شراء 12 طائرة صينية من طراز" [The Ministry of Defense intends to buy 12 Chinese L15 aircraft]. Emirates News Agency (in Arabic). Retrieved 2022-02-23.
  16. ^ a b c Hoyle, Craig (2022-02-23). "UAE poised to order up to 48 Chinese L-15 jet trainers". Flight Global. Retrieved 2022-04-18.
  17. ^ "UAE's Ministry of Defence to buy L-15 Falcon jets from China".
  18. ^ "Ukraine conveys first engines for L-15 trainer airplane to China". Kyiv Post.
  19. ^ Newdick, Thomas (29 April 2024). "China's New Aircraft Carrier Pulls Away From Its Pier Ahead Of Sea Trials". The War Zone.
  20. ^ The Military Balance 2023. International Institute for Strategic Studies. p. 243.
  21. ^ The Military Balance 2021. International Institute for Strategic Studies. p. 254.
  22. ^ "Military Watch Magazine". militarywatchmagazine.com. Retrieved 2022-08-15.
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