Outdated J-7 fighters will be used as drones
China is considering the possibility of converting old J-6 and J-7 jet fighters into unmanned vehicles. They are Chinese versions of the MiG-19 and -21.
J-7 fighters were produced in China in 54 modifications until 2013. A total of about 2,400 of these aircraft were assembled. In 2018, the Chinese army began to put them into conservation. Currently, the Chinese Air Force has about 300 third-generation J-7 fighters in service. They are gradually being replaced by J-16 and J-20 aircraft (fourth and fifth generation).
China is in no hurry to dispose of old aircraft. They will be used to make drones. Apparently, the Chinese military has decided to borrow the experience of the Pentagon, which is developing an unmanned version of the F-16 in the United States. J-7 fighters are capable of reaching Mach 2. Thus, they are much faster than most modern drones. Along with this, the fighters can carry missiles, bombs and other weapons.
