What Was The Nanchang Q-5 & How Did It Make History In China?

The Nanchang Q-5 is a ground attack aircraft designed for a single pilot with twin engines primarily used for air interdiction and close air support. Decades ago, China relied on Soviet machinery for their air force, but in 1958, the Shenyang aircraft factory modified the F-6 to create the Nanchang Q-5 "Fantan" for the strike role. This aircraft was developed from its predecessor, the MiG-19. Modifications included a new nose for the attack radar, split air intakes along the fuselage sides, and an internal bomb bay. Later on, the development and production of the Nanchang Q-5 aircraft was assigned to the China Nanchang Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation (CNAMC).