China's J-10 Radar : NRIET Type 1473 and questions

[overscan (PaulMM)]

So, this is interesting. We finally have a few images of the radar on the J-10. Actually, there seems to be quite major differences between the prototype radar and that fitted to production J-10s.

Here are some images of the J-10 prototype, and a radar which is displayed in a museum as "Type 1473". The antenna visible on the prototype is consistent with the antenna of the museum radar. The museum radar look very much a prototype itself.

 

[overscan (PaulMM)]

Here's some shots of the radars on production J-10s. The antenna design is different. Its got the IFF dipoles added, but the antenna looks smaller (?) and rounder.

 

[Deino]

Good point ! Otherwise it is surely possible and can be explained since the eraly J-10A used the KLJ-3, whereas the latest block - and I think You second batch of images are quite recent ones - have reportedly an updated KLJ-10.

Deino

 

[F-2]

It seems a similar phenomenon can be observed with the KLJ-7. I’m curious why this might be.

 

[F-2]

Perhaps to further complicate the issue

https://m.toutiao.com/article/7151400601631441438/

 

[Ronny]

This is J-10A and B?

 

[F-2]

I can’t seem to find any Chinese sources that use the term KLJ-10, I’m curious if the name thing is correct. I do have sources that say the KLJ-3 was greatly improved in later batches with improved multi target

我军歼10A战机已进行第4次升级 外观有两个特征(图)

我军歼10A战机已进行第4次升级 外观有两个特征(图)

mil.sina.cn

No sign of a different name though.

I’m curious what, if any is the relationship between KLJ-3 and KLJ-7 I have an old AWST that claims the KLJ-7 is a KLJ-3 with a smaller dish. A few Chinese articles make vague statements that might support that.

My current theory

KLJ-1 => original KLJ-3 => KLJ-7v1 => KLJ-3 upgrade.

On the other hand maybe the relationship between KLJ-3 and 7 are over stated?

 

[F-2]

1991 metal prototype, appears to be something else as well. I don’t think the KLJ-3 prototype would exist for a few years.