Entering service with the PLAAF in 1988 after a long protracted development. NATO name: Finback.
 
The F8-II is the basis for all major additions to the F-8 family.
 
Used as both an air-to-air combat unit and in close ground support. TheF8-II is a versatile and effective combat aircraft.
 
Armament
Guns: 1 x 23mm Type 23-III cannon
Hardpoints: 1 centerline and 6 under-wing hardpoints with a capacity of 3 x drop tanks
Rockets: 4 x Type 90-1 FFAR pod (57-mm or 90-mm)
Missiles: 6 x PL-5 AAM or PL-9 AAM or 2 x R-27R1 SARH AAM or 2 x PL-11 SARH AAM or 2 x Kh-31 anti-ship missiles
Bombs: 5 x low drag 500 kg (1,100 lb) or 10 x 250 kg (550 lb) (4 under-wing, 6 on centerline)