The "Super-7" fighter jet is ready to take its maiden flight although a detailed timetable has not yet been released.
Leiqiang, deputy director of the Chengdu Flight Group's trial flight department under the Chinese Air Force, said on Tuesday he will carry out the maiden flight task.
The "Super-7" is the first fighter jet completely designed and manufactured by China.
The third-generation fighter plane, which can carry 3.8 tons of missiles, also has improved systems for attacking ground targets. Its advanced radar positioning and operating systems give the plane greater flexibility and better close-range maneuverability.
On the day of the first flight, China Central Television (CCTV) will dispatch a special report group to broadcast the whole flight live. Leiqiang, also a "Super-7" pilot, and Yangwei, the jet's designer, who is also regarded as the father of "Super-7," will be featured on the CCTV program "Face to Face."
(China Daily July 10, 2003)
