What is the capability of the F-7 BGI, China-made aircraft?

When the entire country mourned the crash of Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BGI fighter jet at Milestone School and College in Uttara, the history, structure and usability of the fighter jet came up in discussion.

The Chinese-made F-7 BGI is a single-engine light and agile fighter, the most advanced version of the F-7 series. China built this fighter aircraft following the design of the famous MiG-21 fighter jet of the former Soviet Union. It is also known as Chengdu J-7.

Bangladesh Air Force has inducted F-7 fighters into its fleet since its inception. These warplanes have long been used for air-to-air combat, air-to-ground attack, training and patrolling.

Design and development of the F-7 first began to meet the needs of China's People's Liberation Army Air Force. In May 2013, the production of the fighter aircraft was stopped, but it is still being actively used by the air forces of several countries including Bangladesh, Pakistan, Egypt.

F-7 known as an all-weather interceptor is capable of fighting in any weather. Its delta-shaped wings provide rapid altitude gain and faster than the speed of sound. Although it has limited range, it is very effective in point-defense or specific area defensive missions.

The F-7 BGI version is specially developed according to the needs of the Bangladesh Air Force. It was the last production version of the J-7 series, with the last unit delivered to Bangladesh in 2013. Bangladesh acquires these aircraft as a temporary solution until modern multirole fighter jets arrive.

F-7 BGI version adds two multifunction displays in the cockpit, hands on throttle and stick (HOTAS) technology and new head-up display (HUD). It also incorporates helmet-mounted sights (HMS), night vision equipment and advanced navigation and bombardment systems for the pilot's convenience.

The Martin Becker Mk.10 ejection seat is used for the safety of the pilot, which allows for quick exit from the aircraft in case of emergency.

Although the F-7 is an old technology aircraft, it is still effective for limited combat and training and continues to play an important role in the air defense of various countries including Bangladesh.