A-5, (Fantan) of Pakistan Air Force

[studsmart]

This striking image shows Four Nanchang A-5III Fantan attack aircraft of the Pakistan Air Force flying in close formation, belonging to the famous No. 7 Squadron, also known as the “Bandits.”

The aircraft wear a distinctive desert camouflage scheme of brown, white, and dark gray, designed for low-level strike operations over rugged terrain. Their sharp noses, side-mounted air intakes, and slim fuselage give the Fantan an aggressive Cold War-era appearance.

The image appears to have been taken during a training or operational formation flight over barren terrain, likely somewhere in Pakistan’s western regions.

The A-5III/A-5C Fantan was the export version of China’s Q-5 ground attack aircraft, specially modified for Pakistan with Western avionics and improved systems. Pakistan operated these aircraft mainly during the 1980s and early 1990s in tactical strike and interdiction roles.

No. 7 Squadron “Bandits” was among the first PAF units to operate the Fantan after transitioning from the B-57 Canberra bomber fleet. The squadron later moved on to the Mirage III series aircraft.

Overall, the photograph captures a rare and historic era of the Pakistan Air Force when Chinese-built attack aircraft formed an important part of its strike capability during the Cold War period.

© Peter Steinemann

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This is my fav A5C color scheme

 

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[studsmart]

any reason why all 3 squadrons of A5C had different color schemes? it is a puzzle i cannot sole my self.

 

[ghazi52]

PAF A5III carrying Air to Air and Air to Ground munitions.

 

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PAF A5III over Peshawar. Jamrud mountain can be seen in the background.

 

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Peshawar Base

 

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Pakistan Air Force No # 16 Squadron "Black Panthers" was the first Pakistan Air Force Squadron converting from Shenyang F-6 to Nanchang A-5 III in early 1983 and operating the type until 2011.

The Black Panthers were based at Peshawar during my visit in November 1989 and had the most attractive squadron markings of the three PAF A-5 squadrons (the other two were No.7 and No.26), but the Panther, which was only painted to the port side on the nose, was removed in the early 1990s.

Of interest is also that only early A-5s had grey as part of the camouflage scheme which was replaced with brown in subsequent deliveries and after maintenance in Pakistan.

Credit:- Peter Steinemann