K-8 Karakorum / JL-8 / L-11

Karakoram-8 (K-8) is used to perform basic training and partial advanced training, accomplishing the flight training subjects, such as circling flight (takeoff & landing), night flight, aerobatic flight, formation flight, stall, spin, etc. and weapon training subjects such A-G & A-A attack. It is characterized by perfect flight quality, high reliability, good maintainability, low cost of overall life, etc. and is an ideal new-generation of basic/advanced jet trainer. The K-8 is fitted with Allied Signal GARRETT TFE 731-2A-2A modular turbofan engine with DEEC & hydro mechanical fuel control system.

This plane takes advantage of single-engine, two-side air intake, tandem double seats, low-wing monoplane, 3-point nose undercarriage unit. It is mainly used for training, which can accomplish the task of take off, fly, night-fly, metering, formation, aerobatics and etc. K8 is equipped with the advanced devices that the planes in other countries are also equipped, and many advanced devices in China (such as atmosphere data computer, combined alarm) K-8 aircraft is attending international aviation exposition.

Cockpit is designed to meet the latest Military Specification of Aircrew Station Geometry and vision requirements. EFIS made by Collins is fitted in front and rear cockpits. UHF/VHF communication system, TACAN/RADIO COMPASS & ILS are available as per the customers requirement. Highly reliable escape system incorporating two Martin Baker MK-10L fully automatic rocket assisted zero-zero ejection seats to ensure survival capability within the entire flight envelope.

Incorporation of most effective Allied Signal Environmental Control System (ECS) provides a roomy cockpit environment with airconditioning capability even on ground under an ambient temperature of -40 °C to +52 °C. The aircraft fuel system consists of the fuel tanks and the fuel supply / transfer, vent/pressurisation, fuel quantity measuring / indicating, fuel refuelling and fuel drain subsystems. The total fuel contained in two fuselage bladder-type rubber tanks and a wing integral tank is 1720 lb. The capacity of each drop tank is 250 Ltr.

The aircraft is equipped with conventional flight control surfaces controlled by a rigid push-rod transmission system and are electrically or hydraulically operated. The aileron control system, of irreversible servo-control type, is composed of a hydraulic booster, an artificial feel device, a feel trim actuator and a rigid push-rod transmission mechanism. The elevator and rudder control system is of reversible push-rod type.

Main Features

• Wide speed range and high maneuverability
• Satisfactory flying qualities in accordance with the requirements set forth in MIL-F-8785C IV for highly- manoeuvrable aircraft
• Good field of view and cockpit arrangement very close to a combat aircraft
• Advanced turbofan engine with low specific fuel consumption and minimum operation and maintenance cost
• State of the art equipment (including instrumentation, communication, navigation, etc.) satisfying the requirements of training pilots for next millennium.
• Highly reliable escape system
• Advanced strap on environmental control system capable of providing cockpit air- conditioning both on the ground and in the air
• Hydraulically operated wheel braking and nose wheel steering
• Multi role capability for training
• 8000 flight hours service life for airframe structure
• Long endurance and high service ceiling adequate for a wide range of missions.
• Low life cost
• Short turn-around time and low maintenance work load