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North Korea still operates the Shenyang J-5 fighter jet

The J-5, first flown in 1956, is the oldest fighter jet currently in service.

July 19, 2025 at 09:15 AM

This Is The Oldest Fighter Jet Still Being Used Today

North Korea still operates the Shenyang J-5, the oldest fighter jet in use today.

Oldest fighter jet in operation is North Korea's Shenyang J-5

The Shenyang J-5, a licensed variant of the MiG-15, remains in service in North Korea. First flying in 1956, it is known to be actively used by the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea (DPRK) despite concerns about its airworthiness. Estimates suggest the DPRK operates around 106 of these jets as of 2025, though the exact number and condition are unclear due to the country's lack of transparency regarding its military assets.

Key Takeaways

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The Shenyang J-5 first flew in 1956 and is still in use today.

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North Korea is believed to operate 106 J-5 fighter jets as of 2025.

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The aircraft is a derivative of the Soviet MiG-15.

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There are doubts about the airworthiness of these 70-year-old jets.

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North Korea's military technology remains outdated compared to global standards.

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The J-5's operation reflects broader issues in North Korea's military strategy.

"The Shenyang J-5 is the oldest fighter jet still in use as of mid-2025."

This quote emphasizes the longevity of the J-5 in military operations.

"North Korea's reliance on the J-5 complicates its military strategy."

This comment addresses the challenges posed by outdated military technology.

The continued operation of the Shenyang J-5 highlights North Korea's reliance on outdated military technology. This raises questions about the state's military readiness and the implications for regional security. While many nations invest in advanced aircraft, the J-5's presence underlines the challenges North Korea faces in modernizing its forces as well as the potential military risks of maintaining such old technology.

Highlights

North Korea still flies a 70-year-old jet in today's skies.
The Shenyang J-5 shows how outdated technology can persist.
Is North Korea's Shenyang J-5 a relic or a risk?
Old jets, new concerns: the J-5 in today's military landscape.

Concerns over military capabilities due to outdated technology

North Korea's continued use of the Shenyang J-5 raises concerns about its military readiness and air superiority. This reliance on outdated equipment may create vulnerabilities in regional security.

North Korea's reliance on aging technology raises questions about its future military capabilities.

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shenyang j-5 fighterjet northkorea aviation military aviation politics

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