Okay, maybe more of the dysfunctional barbarian family later 😀
To answer the second part of your request, AGeorgie.
From Jack Collins’s definitive web writeup on PLAAF fighters’ development archived at CDF:
J-12: Nanchang interpreted the PLAAF request as being for an ultra-lightweight fighter and produced a four-tonne design with a nose intake for its single WP-6 afterburning turbojet. The J-12 project started in 1969 and it only took 17 months for detailed design, wind tunnel tests and the production of three prototypes. After three years of test flights beginning in 1970, Nanchang made a series of revisions to the design to cope with problems including poor engine performance. The redesigned J-12 made 135 test flights, achieving a maximum speed of Mach 1.386 (surpassing the J-6) and showing sprightly acceleration, a takeoff run of less than 500 metres and a ceiling of 17,300 metres (also superior to the J-6). The J-12 was fitted with a 30mm and a 23mm cannon and had provision for up to 3 AAMs. However, in 1978 the PLAAF decided the J-12 was not suitable for the demands of modern air warfare and stopped development. Of the six prototypes produced two are retained in the Chinese Aviation Museum collection.
Now that is a light combat aircraft! 😀
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