“PL-13”
 Another surprise in the imagery made available on Chinese web pages  on January 4 was a curious computer-generated depiction of a missile  called the “PL-13.” However, it must be stressed that this is the first  image of this missile and a definitive determination of its existence  and performance must await further disclosures.  Arguing in favor of  this program’s existence is the fact that its image appears with clear  images of the PL-12 and the new PL-10, which would tend to lend  credibility to the new missile depiction.  In addition, Luoyang was  reported to have been interested in ramjet propulsion to develop the  PL-12.[13]  This PL-13 image also points to the possibility  that Vympel has sold China the technology needed to make such an AAM.   The PL-13 image appears to show a two-intake ramjet motor, a  configuration that Vympel had come to prefer as it was developing its  R-77M-PD, following early 1990s collaboration with France’s former MATRA  Corporation.[14]  The ramjet intake shape on the PL-13  appears to conform to one known Vympel configuration.  Furthermore, the  four cruciform fins at the front end of the PL-13 are also  characteristic of other Vympel missiles like the R-27, and Vympel was  also reportedly discarding the “grid” shape fins for conventional fins,[15]  which also coincides with the PL-13 image.  Inasmuch as Russia  apparently decided not to purchase the R-77M-PD, it is possible that  Vympel was allowed to sell this missile technology to China.[16]   But it is also possible that South Africa was a source for some AAM  ramjet engine technology, inasmuch as South Africa also had an  unrealized program called the Long Range Air-to-Air Missile (LRAAM).