The Shenyang J-8II is a significantly-improved development of the original J-8 interceptor, with lateral inlets and a much larger fire-control radar in the now solid nose. Possibly around 100 or so are in service with the PLAAF, and, apart from the recently-delivered Su-27s, the type is the most potent aircraft in the Chinese inventory. This example appeared at the museum sometime in 2002, and is probably a prototype or pre-production machine, although the 4-digit serial is unusual.