Changms

Changms refers to a family of Chinese multi-role combat aircraft. These aircraft are developed by the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation. The most well-known variant is the Chengdu J-10, a single-engine, fourth-generation fighter jet. The J-10 is designed for air-to-air combat and air-to-ground attack missions. It has been in service with the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) since the early 2000s.

The Changms program originated from a desire for a modern, domestically produced fighter to complement existing Soviet-designed aircraft in the PLAAF's inventory. Development began in the 1980s and involved significant technological advancements for China's aerospace industry. The J-10 has undergone several upgrades and modifications over its service life, leading to different sub-variants with enhanced capabilities, including improved avionics, radar, and weapon systems.

In addition to the J-10, the Changms designation may encompass other related developmental or operational aircraft projects originating from Chengdu Aircraft Corporation. While the J-10 is the most prominent example, the broader "Changms" umbrella could potentially include future iterations or specialized versions of this fighter platform. The aircraft's introduction marked a significant step in China's efforts to modernize its air force and achieve greater self-reliance in advanced military aviation technology.