Q-5/A-5 was converted brilliantly from reverse-engineering early MiG-19 models supplied to China from Russia, using area-ruled side intakes. Mainly used as a ground attack fighter (A-5). But at the end of the day, still a MiG-19.
I wonder if the conversion allowed a proper attack nose radar to be fitted, but later versions reportedly had improved radars fitted, though I'm not sure.
BAF Fantans seemed a little underpowered, as reported by BAF pilots who flew them.
Upgraded version based on the Q-5 II featuring Western avionics such as a laser rangefinder, INS, and a HUD system from Thomson-CSF. This was not exported.
Export version of the Q-5 III with more capable Western avionics and the ability to fire AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles (i.e. Chinese PL-2/5), were the ones purchased by Pakistan and Bangladesh.
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A-5 (Q-5) is believed to be Pakistan’s first tactical nuclear strike delivery aircraft. Two fuel tanks and nuclear devices not so different from O-27 shown below. Obviously its not declared mostly speculated but believed to be true.
O-27 tactical N-bomb mounted on modified Q-5A. first operational N-bomb. Q-5A would fly at an altitude of 300m to avoid radar detection, about 12km before target would start 45° climb reaching altitude of 1,200m & release. It was developed for Soviets & mission was one way .