Convert Eclipse project type from general to Java [duplicate]

Answer 1

Partial response: you can convert your project to a Java project by adding the following nature to the .project file contained at the root of your project:

<natures>
    <nature>org.eclipse.jdt.core.javanature</nature>
 </natures>

And I think that the purpose of the Checkout as New project is to be able to create an "Eclipse project" for a project that has no .project and .classpath file. This allows you, for example, to say that the project is actually a Java project.

Answer 2

Under Project Properties -> Project Facets -> Convert to faceted form... you can select Java - this will add the Java functionalities to your project. There you can also add other facets like Dynamic Web Module if necessary.

From what you have written the project was checked out correctly. The option Check out as a project configured using the New Project Wizard is applicable when the .project file does not exist in the repository and you have to select the project type manually. It will only create a new Eclipse project locally.