Image source: topwar.ru
Numerous aircraft of obsolete J-6 and J-7 models, which are Chinese versions of the Soviet MiG-19 (2nd generation) and MiG-21 (3rd generation) fighters, remain in storage by the PLA.
According to the publication Interesting Engineering, the PLA has been carrying out work on their deconservation and conversion into kamikaze drones with subsequent test flights since about 2018. The author believes that the Chinese command intends to use fighters converted into UAVs to break through the air defense of Taiwan, after which a full-fledged air attack and amphibious landing should follow.
At the same time, the Western press refers to a number of oddities in the behavior of PLA aviation. For example, in 2021, during training maneuvers in the Taiwan Strait, several J-7 vehicles were spotted, which were part of a group of J-16 fighters.
According to the author, the use of obsolete aircraft as attack drones is quite justified, since they do not require spending money on new production and can carry increased loads that would be critical for pilots. Moreover, at present the supersonic class of UAVs is still in its infancy.
