China’s Guizhou Aviation Industry Corporation under the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) has started production of its new export-oriented FTC-2000G lightweight multirole combat aircraft. The new light attack aircraft is expected to make its first flight by the end of September according to official Chinese government media.

The FTC-2000G was developed to meet the demand of the international market. The company has full independent intellectual property rights of the aircraft. The FTC-2000G is the latest derivative of the Guizhou JL-9 supersonic advanced jet trainer, which serves with both the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and the People’s Liberation Army Navy.

It is expected to conduct its maiden flight by the end of September.

The multi-functional military aircraft is fit for attacking, fighting and training. It could also be used for reconnaissance [missions], or even adapted [as a dedicated] reconnaissance plane.

The model can have up to seven hardpoints and a maximum suspension weight of 3,000 kg.