PL-12


The PL-12 is an active radar-guided beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile developed by the People's Republic of China. It is considered comparable to the American AIM-120 AMRAAM and the Russian R-77.

Development history

The first public information of the Leihua Electronic Technology Research Institute's PL-12 then called the SD-10 emerged in 2001. Development was assisted by Vympel NPO and of Russia. Liang Xiaogeng is believed to have been the chief designer. Four successful test firings were made in 2004. By 2005, the missile was also known as the PL-12.

Description

The PL-12 may use the radar and data link from the Russian R-77, or otherwise use systems benefiting from technology transfers from Russia. The missile uses a Chinese rocket motor and airframe. The PL-12 may have a passive homing mode for use against jammers and AEW aircraft.

Variants

Current operators