CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder

The CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder (Urdu: جے ایف-17 گرج), or FC-1 Xiaolong (Chinese: 枭龙; pinyin: Xiāo Lóng; lit. 'Fierce Dragon'), is a lightweight, single-engine, multi-role combat aircraft developed jointly by the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) of China and the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC).[1] It was designed to replace the ageing A-5C, F-7P/PG, Mirage III, and Mirage V combat aircraft in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).[2] The JF-17 can be used for multiple roles, including interception, ground attack, anti-ship, and aerial reconnaissance. The Pakistani designation "JF-17" stands for "Joint Fighter-17", with the "-17" denoting that, in the PAF's vision, it is the successor to the F-16. The Chinese designation "FC-1" stands for "Fighter China-1".

JF-17 Thunder
FC-1 Xiaolong
A JF-17 of the Pakistan Air Force
Role Multirole combat aircraft
National origin China / Pakistan
Manufacturer Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group / Pakistan Aeronautical Complex,
First flight 25 August 2003 (2003-08-25)
Introduction 12 March 2007 (2007-03-12)
Status In service
Primary users Pakistan Air Force
Myanmar Air Force
Nigerian Airforce
Produced In China: June 2007 – present
In Pakistan: January 2008 – present

The JF-17 can deploy diverse ordnance, including air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, including anti-ship missiles, and a 23 mm GSh-23-2 twin-barrel autocannon. Powered by a Guizhou WS-13 or Klimov RD-93 afterburning turbofan, it has a top speed of Mach 1.6.[3] The JF-17 is the backbone and workhorse of the PAF, complementing the Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon at approximately half the cost,[4] with the block II variant costing $25 million.[5] The JF-17 was inducted in the PAF in February 2010.[6][7]

Fifty-eight per cent of the JF-17 airframe, including its front fuselage, wings, and vertical stabilizer, is produced in Pakistan, whereas forty-two percent is produced in China, with the final assembly and serial production taking place in Pakistan.[8][9] In 2015, Pakistan produced 16 JF-17s.[7] As of 2016, PAC has the capacity to produce 20 JF-17s annually. By April 2017, PAC had manufactured 70 Block 1 aircraft[10][11] and 33 Block 2 aircraft for the PAF.[12] By 2016, PAF JF-17s had accumulated over 19,000 hours of operational flight.[13] In 2017, PAC/CAC began developing a dual-seat variant known as the JF-17B for enhanced operational capability, conversion training, and lead-in fighter training.[14][15] The JF-17B Block 2 variant went into serial production at PAC in 2018 and 26 aircraft were delivered to the PAF by December 2020.[16] In December 2020, PAC began serial production of a more advanced Block 3 version of the aircraft with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, a more powerful Russian Klimov RD-93MA engine, a larger and more advanced wide-angle Head-Up Display (HUD), electronic countermeasures, an additional hardpoint, and enhanced weapons capability.[17]

PAF JF-17s have seen military action, both air-to-air and air-to-ground, including bombing terrorist positions in North Waziristan near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border during anti-terror operations in 2014 and 2017 using both guided and unguided munitions,[18][9] shooting down an intruding Iranian military drone near the Pakistan-Iran Border in Balochistan in 2017,[19] and in Operation Swift Retort during the 2019 Jammu and Kashmir airstrikes and aerial skirmish between India and Pakistan.[20]

Development

Background

The JF-17 was designed and developed primarily to meet the PAF requirement for an affordable,[21] unsanctionable, fourth-generation, lightweight, multi-role combat aircraft as a replacement for its large fleet of Nanchang A-5C bombers, Chengdu F-7P/PG interceptors, and Dassault Mirage III/5 fighters, with a cost of US$500 million, divided equally between Pakistan and China.[22] The aircraft was also intended to have export potential as a cost-effective and competitive alternative to more expensive Western fighters.[23][24][25] The development of this aircraft was headed by Yang Wei, who is considered China's "ace designer",[26] who also designed the Chengdu J-20.

By 1989, because of economic sanctions by the US, Pakistan had abandoned Project Sabre II, a design study involving US aircraft manufacturer Grumman and China, and had decided to redesign and upgrade the Chengdu F-7.[27] In the same year, China and Grumman started a new design study to develop the Super 7, another redesigned Chengdu F-7.[28] Grumman left the project when sanctions were placed on China following the political fallout from the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests. After Grumman left the Chengdu Super 7 project, the Fighter China project was launched in 1991.[29] In 1995, Pakistan and China signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for joint design and development of a new fighter, and over the next few years worked out the project details.[30] In June 1995, Mikoyan had joined the project to provide "design support", this also involved the secondment of several engineers by CAC.[31]

Launch of FC-1 project

A PAF JF-17 in Izmir, Turkey for the 2011 Izmir Air Show

In October 1995, Pakistan was reportedly to select a Western company by the end of the year to provide and integrate the FC-1's avionics, which was expected to go into production by 1999. The avionics were said to include radar, Inertial navigation system, Head-up display, and Multi-function displays. Competing bids came from Thomson-CSF with a variant of the Radar Doppler Multitarget (RDY), SAGEM with a similar avionics package to those used in the ROSE upgrade project, and Marconi Electronic Systems with its Blue Hawk radar. FIAR's (now SELEX Galileo) Grifo S7 radar was expected to be selected due to the company's ties with the PAF.[32] In February 1998, Pakistan and China signed a letter of intent covering airframe development. Russia's Klimov offered a variant of the RD-33 turbofan engine to power the fighter.[33] In April 1999, South Africa's Denel offered to arm the Super 7 with the T-darter beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missile (AAM), rather than the previously reported R-Darter.[34] Previously in 1987, Pratt & Whitney offered the Super-7 project three engine options; PW1212, F404, and PW1216, with local manufacturing in either China or Pakistan. Rolls Royce offered its RB199-127/128 turbofan engine; this plan was scrapped in 1989.[35]

In June 1999, the contract to jointly develop and produce the Chengdu FC-1/Super 7 was signed. After GEC-Marconi had abandoned the bidding to supply an integrated avionics suite, FIAR and Thomson-CSF proposed a number of avionics suites based on the Grifo S7 and RC400 radars respectively, despite previously hoping to use the PAF's Super 7 to launch its new Blue Hawk radar.[36][37] Because of sanctions placed on Pakistan after the country's 1998 nuclear weapons tests, design work progressed very slowly over the next 18 months, preventing delivery of the Western avionics to the PAF. In early 2001, the PAF decided to decouple the airframe from the avionics, enabling design work on the aircraft to continue. As the airframe was developed, any new avionics requirements by the PAF could be more easily integrated into the airframe.[30]

Prototype production began in September 2002; a full-size mock-up of the FC-1/Super 7 was displayed at Airshow China in November 2002.[38] The first batch of Klimov RD-93 turbofan engines that would power the prototypes was also delivered in 2002.[29] According to a China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC) official, the JF-17's low cost is due to some of the on-board systems having been adapted from those of the Chengdu J-10. The official said, "This transfer of technologytransposing the aircraft systems from the J-10 to the JF-17is what makes the JF-17 so cost-effective".[39][40] The use of computer-aided design software shortened the design phase of the JF-17.[41]

Flight testing and redesigning

The first prototype, PT-01, was rolled out on 31 May 2003[23][42] and transferred to the Chengdu Flight Test Centre to be prepared for its maiden flight.[30] This was initially planned to take place in June, but was delayed due to concerns about the SARS outbreak.[30][42] The designation Super-7 was replaced by "JF-17" (Joint Fighter-17) around this point.[43] Low speed taxiing trials began at Wenjiang Airport, Chengdu, on 27 June 2003.[29] The maiden flight was made in late August 2003;[23][43] an official maiden flight of the prototype took place in early September. The prototype was marked with the new PAF designation JF-17.[30] By March 2004, CAC had made around 20 test flights of the first prototype.[44] On 7 April 2004, PAF test pilots Rashid Habib and Mohammad Ehsan ul-Haq flew PT-01 for the first time. The maiden flight of the third prototype, PT-03, took place on 9 April 2004.[30] In March 2004, Pakistan was planning to induct around 200 aircraft.[45]

Model Of JF-17 Thunder

Following the third prototype, several design improvements were developed and incorporated into further aircraft. Because of excessive smoke emissions by the RD-93 engine, the air intakes were widened. Reported control problems found in testing resulted in alterations to the wing leading edge root extensions (LERX). The vertical tail fin was enlarged to house an expanded electronic warfare equipment bay in the tip.[23][46][47] The redesigned aircraft had a slightly increased maximum take-off weight and incorporated an increased quantity of Chinese-sourced avionics; however PAF had selected Western avionics for their aircraft, postponing PAF deliveries from late 2005 until 2007. Pakistan evaluated British, French, and Italian avionics suites, the winner of which was expected to be finalised in 2006.[48] PT-04, the fourth prototype and the first to incorporate the design changes, was rolled out in April 2006 and made its first flight on 28 April 2006.[46][49]

The modified air intakes replaced conventional intake rampswhose function is to divert turbulent boundary layer airflow away from the inlet and prevent it entering the enginewith a diverterless supersonic inlet (DSI) design.[46] The DSI uses a combination of forward-swept inlet cowls and a three-dimensional compression surface to divert the boundary layer airflow at high sub-sonic and supersonic speeds. According to Lockheed Martin, the DSI design prevents most of the boundary layer air from entering the engine at speeds up to two times the speed of sound, reduces weight by removing the need for complex mechanical intake mechanisms,[50] and is stealthier than a conventional intake.[46] In 1999, developmental work on the DSI with the aim of improving aircraft performance commenced. The JF-17 design was finalised in 2001.[51] Multiple models underwent wind tunnel tests; it was found that the DSI reduced weight, cost, and complexity while improving performance.[50]

For the avionics and weapons qualification phase of the flight testing, PT-04 was fitted with a fourth-generation avionics suite that incorporates sensor fusion, an electronic warfare suite, enhanced man-machine interface, Digital Electronic Engine Control (DEEC) for the RD-93 turbofan engine, FBW flight controls, day/night precision surface attack capability, and multi-mode, pulse-Doppler radar for BVR air-to-air attack capability.[52] The sixth prototype, PT-06, made its maiden flight on 10 September 2006.[53] Following a competition in 2008, Martin-Baker was selected over a Chinese firm for the supply of fifty PK16LE ejection seats.[54]

Production

A PAF JF-17 at the Le Bourget Airport, Paris, France for the 2015 Paris Air Show

On 2 March 2007, the first consignment of two small-batch-production (SBP) aircraft arrived in a dismantled state in Pakistan. They flew for the first time on 10 March 2007 and took part in a public aerial demonstration during a Pakistan Day parade on 23 March 2007. The PAF intended to induct 200 JF-17 by 2015 to replace all its Chengdu F-7, Nanchang A-5, and Dassault Mirage III/5 aircraft. In preparation for the in-flight refuelling of JF-17s, the PAF has upgraded several Mirage IIIs with IFR probes for training purposes.[55] A dual-seat, combat-capable trainer was originally scheduled to begin flight testing in 2006;[25] in 2009 Pakistan reportedly decided to develop the training model into a specialised attack variant.[56][57]

In November 2007, the PAF and PAC conducted flight evaluations of aircraft fitted with a variant of the NRIET KLJ-10 radar developed by China's Nanjing Research Institute for Electronic Technology (NRIET), and the LETRI SD-10 active radar homing AAM.[58] In 2005, PAC began manufacturing JF-17 components; production of sub-assemblies commenced on 22 January 2008.[59][60] The PAF was to receive a further six pre-production aircraft in 2005, for a total of 8 out of an initial production run of 16 aircraft. Initial operating capability was to be achieved by the end of 2008.[61] Final assembly of the JF-17 in Pakistan began on 30 June 2009; PAC expected to complete production of four to six aircraft that year. They planned to produce twelve aircraft in 2010 and fifteen to sixteen aircraft per year from 2011; this could increase to twenty-five aircraft per year.[62] On 29 December 2015, PAC announced the rollout of the 16th JF-17 Thunder fighter manufactured in the calendar year 2015, taking total number of manufactured aircraft to more than 66. Later, a PAF spokesperson said that in light of the interest shown by various countries, it has been decided that production capacity of JF-17 Thunder at PAC Kamra will be expanded.[7]

Russia signed an agreement in August 2007 for re-export of 150 RD-93 engines from China to Pakistan for the JF-17.[63] In 2008, the PAF reported it was not fully satisfied with the RD-93 engine and that it would only power the first 50 aircraft; it was alleged that arrangements for a new engine, reportedly the Snecma M53-P2, may have been made.[64] Mikhail Pogosyan, head of the MiG and Sukhoi design bureaus, recommended the Russian defence export agency Rosoboronexport block RD-93 engine sales to China to prevent export competition from the JF-17 against the MiG-29.[65][66] At the 2010 Farnborough Airshow, the JF-17 was displayed internationally for the first time; aerial displays at the show were intended but were cancelled due to a late attendance decision as well as license and insurance costs.[67] According to a Rosoboronexport official at the Airshow China 2010, held on 16–21 November 2005 in Zhuhai, China, Russia and China had signed a contract worth $238 million for 100 RD-93 engines with options for another 400 engines developed for the FC-1.[68]

According to media reports, Pakistan planned to increase production of JF-17s by 25% in 2016.[69]

Further development

JF 17 Thunder in Pakistan Flag Livery at Paris Air Show

Pakistan negotiated with British and Italian defence firms regarding avionics and radars for the JF-17 development. Radar options include the Italian Galileo Avionica's Grifo S7,[70] the French Thomson-CSF's RC400 (a variant of the RDY-2),[71] and the British company SELEX Galileo's Vixen 500E AESA radar.[24] In 2010, the PAF had reportedly selected ATE Aerospace Group to integrate French-built avionics and weapons systems over rival bids from Astrac, Finmeccanica and a Thales-Sagem joint venture. Fifty JF-17s were to be upgraded and an optional fifty from 2013 onwards, at a cost of up to US$1.36 billion. The RC-400 radar, MICA AAMs, and several air-to-surface weapons are believed to be in the contract. The PAF also held talks with South Africa for the supply of Denel A-darter AAMs.[72][73]

In April 2010, after eighteen months of negotiations, the deal was reportedly suspended; reports cited French concerns about Pakistan's financial situation, the protection of sensitive French technology, and by Indian lobbying, which operates many French-built aircraft.[74][75] France wanted the PAF to purchase several Mirage 2000-9 fighters from the United Arab Emirates Air Force, which would overlap with the upgraded JF-17.[76] In July 2010, the PAF's Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman, said such reports were false, stating: "I have had discussions with French Government officials who have assured me that this is not the position of their government...someone was trying to cause mischiefto put pressure on France not to supply the avionics we want".[77]

On 18 December 2013, production of Block 2 JF-17s began at PAC's Kamra facility.[78] These have an air-to-air refuelling capability, improved avionics, enhanced load carrying capacity, data link, and electronic warfare capabilities.[79] Block 2 construction is planned to run until 2016, after which the manufacturing of further developed Block III aircraft is planned.[80] In December 2015, it was announced that the 16th Block II aircraft had been handed over resulting in standing up of the 4th squadron.[81]

On 17 June 2015, Jane's Defence Weekly confirmed[82] that JF-17 Block III will have an AESA radar, a helmet-mounted display (HMD) and possibly an internal infrared search and tracking (IRST) system.[83] A two-seat version was also reportedly be produced in Block III.[84] Unconfirmed reports claim that Block III will also have a better flight management system.[85] Selex ES has promoted its next-generation cockpit as a possible upgrade of JF-17 Block III; this cockpit includes a new mission computer, an enhanced head-up display and contemporary multi-function displays, plus the capability for the pilot to use a single, large-area display instead.[86]

In July 2020, despite Indian protest Russian state-owned United Engine Corporation developed a new engine RD-93MA for JF-17 fighter being built by Pakistan.[87]

Design

Front View

Airframe

The airframe is of semi-monocoque structure constructed primarily of aluminum alloys. High-strength steel and titanium alloys are partially adopted in some critical areas. The airframe is designed for a service life of 4,000 flight hours or 25 years, the first overhaul being due at 1,200 flight hours.[25] Block 2 JF-17s incorporate greater use of composite materials in the airframe to reduce weight. The retractable undercarriage has a tricycle arrangement with a single steerable nose-wheel and two main undercarriages. The hydraulic brakes have an automatic anti-skid system. The position and shape of the inlets is designed to give the required airflow to the jet engine during maneuvers involving high angles of attack.[25]

The mid-mounted wings are of cropped-delta configuration. Near the wing root are the LERX, which generate a vortex that provides extra lift to the wing at high angles of attack encountered during combat maneuvers. A conventional tri-plane empennage arrangement is incorporated, with all-moving stabilators, single vertical stabiliser, rudder, and twin ventral fins. The flight control system (FCS) comprises conventional controls with stability augmentation in the yaw and roll axis and a digital fly-by-wire (FBW) system in the pitch axis. The leading-edge slats/flaps and Trailing edge flaps are automatically adjusted during manoeuvring to increase turning performance.[25] The FCS of serial production aircraft reportedly have a digital quadruplex (quad-redundant) FBW system in the pitch axis and a duplex (dual-redundant) FBW system in the roll and yaw axis.[53]

Up to 3,400 lb (1,500 kg) of ordnance, equipment, and fuel can be mounted under the hardpoints, two of which are on the wing-tips, four are under the wings and one is under the fuselage.[25]

Cockpit

The glass cockpit have a very poor rear visibility , a trait of typical Soviet era design. It has three large Multifunction Colour Displays (MFD) and smart Heads-Up Display (HUD) with built-in symbol generation capability. A centre stick is used for pitch and roll control while rudder pedals control yaw. A throttle is located to the left of the pilot. The cockpit incorporates hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) controls. The pilot sits on a Martin-Baker Mk-16LE zero-zero ejection seat. The cockpit incorporates an electronic flight instrument system (EFIS) and a wide-angle, holographic head-up display (HUD), which has a minimum total field of view of 25 degrees. The EFIS comprises three colour multi-function displays, providing basic flight information, tactical information, and information on the engine, fuel, electrical, hydraulics, flight control, and environment control systems. The HUD and MFD can be configured to show any available information. Each MFD is 20.3 cm (8.0 in) wide and 30.5 cm (12.0 in) tall and is arranged side by side in portrait orientation. The central MFD is placed lowest to accommodate a control panel between it and the HUD.[25]

Avionics

The avionics software incorporates the concept of open architecture. Instead of the military-optimised Ada programming language, the software is written using the popular C++ programming language, enabling the use of the numerous civilian programmers available.[88] The aircraft also includes a health and usage monitoring system, and automatic test equipment.[25][89]

The JF-17 has a defensive aids system (DAS) composed of various integrated sub-systems. A radar warning receiver (RWR) provides data such as direction and proximity of enemy radars, and an electronic warfare (EW) suite housed in a fairing at the tip of the tail fin interferes with enemy radars. The EW suite is also linked to a Missile Approach Warning (MAW) system to defend against radar-guided missiles. The MAW system uses several optical sensors across the airframe to detect the rocket motors of missiles across a 360-degree coverage.[24] Data from the MAW system, such as direction of inbound missiles and the time to impact, is shown on cockpit displays and the HUD. A countermeasures dispensing system releases decoy flares and chaff to help evade hostile radar and missiles. The DAS systems will also be enhanced by integration of a self-protection radar-jamming pod that will be carried externally on a hardpoint.[25]

The first forty-two PAF production aircraft are equipped with the NRIET KLJ-7 radar,[90][91] a variant of the KLJ-10 radar developed by China's Nanjing Research Institute of Electronic Technology (NRIET) and also used on the Chengdu J-10. Multiple modes can manage the surveillance and engagement of up to forty air, ground, and sea targets; the track-while-scan mode can track up to ten targets at BVR and can engage two simultaneously with radar-homing AAMs. The operation range for targets with a radar cross-section (RCS) of 5 m2 (54 sq ft) is stated to be ≥ 105 km (65 mi) in look-up mode and ≥ 85 km (53 mi) in look-down mode.[91][92] A forward looking infrared (FLIR) pod for low-level navigation and infra-red search and track (IRST) system for passive targeting can also be integrated;[25] the JF-17 Block 2 is believed to incorporate an IRST. In April 2016, Air Marshal Muhammad Ashfaque Arain said that, "JF-17 needs a targeting pod, as the jets' usefulness in current operations was limited due to lack of precision targeting. To fulfill this gap the Air Force was interested in buying the Thales-made Damocles, a third-generation targeting pod; which was a priority."[93] In 2017, Aselsans ASELPOD was tested and successfully integrated with the JF-17 and Pakistan has subsequently purchased at least eight targeting pods from Aselsan.[94] This integration has significantly enhanced the JF-17 platform's ability to launch precision strikes.

A helmet-mounted sight (HMS) developed by Luoyang Electro-Optics Technology Development Centre of AVIC was developed in parallel with the JF-17; it was first tested on Prototype 04 in 2006.[95][96] It was dubbed as EO HMS, (Electro-Optical Helmet Mounted Sight) and was first revealed to the public in 2008 at the 7th Zhuhai Airshow, where a partial mock-up was on display. The HMS tracks the pilot's head and eye movements to guide missiles towards the pilot's visual target.[24] An externally carried day/night laser designator targeting pod may be integrated with the avionics to guide laser-guided bombs (LGBs).[25] An extra hardpoint may be added under the starboard air intake, opposite the cannon, for such pods. To reduce the numbers of targeting pods required, the aircraft's tactical data link can transmit target data to other aircraft not equipped with targeting pods.[24] The communication systems comprise two VHF/UHF radios; the VHF radio has the capacity for data linking for communication with ground control centers, airborne early warning and control aircraft and combat aircraft with compatible data links for network-centric warfare, and improved situation awareness.[97] The aircraft uses RLGs along with GPS for navigation. The aircraft is equipped with an IFF Transponder which allows it to differentiate between friendly aircraft and enemy aircraft. The ACMI aids in aerial combat for maneuvering.[98]

Engine

The first two blocks of JF-17 is powered by a single Russian RD-93 turbofan engine, which is a variant of the Klimov RD-33 engine used on the MiG-29 fighter. The engine gives more thrust and significantly lower specific fuel consumption than turbojet engines fitted to older combat aircraft being replaced by the JF-17. The advantages of using a single engine are a reduction in maintenance time and cost when compared to twin-engined fighters. A thrust-to-weight ratio of 0.99 can be achieved with full internal fuel tanks and no external payload. The engine's air supply is provided by two bifurcated air inlets (see airframe section).[99]

The RD-93 is known to produce smoke trails.[99] The Guizhou Aero Engine Group has been developing a new turbofan engine, the WS-13 Taishan, since 2000 to replace the RD-93. It is based on the RD-33 and incorporates new technologies to boost performance and reliability. A thrust output of 80 to 86.36 kN (17,980 to 19,410 lbf), a lifespan of 2,200 hours, and a thrust-to-weight ratio of 8.7 are expected. An improved version of the WS-13, developing a thrust of around 100 kN (22,000 lbf) (22,450 lb), is also reportedly under development.[100] During the 2015 Paris Air Show, it was announced that flight testing of a JF-17 equipped with the WS-13 engine had begun.[101] In 2015, a representative of PAC said that Pakistan would continue to use the RD-93 engine on their fighters.[102] Local media reports in January 2016 said that Russia was planning to sell engines for JF-17 directly to Pakistan.[103] According to a PAC representative, Pakistan is looking to collaborate with Russia in developing and repairing engines.

Fuel system

The fuel system comprises internal fuel tanks located in the wings and fuselage with a capacity of 2,330 kg (5,140 lb); they are refuelled through a single point pressure refuelling system (see turbine fuel systems). Internal fuel storage can be supplemented by external fuel tanks. One 800-litre (180 imp gal) drop tank can be mounted on the aircraft's centerline hard point under the fuselage and two 800-litre or 1,110-litre (240 imp gal) drop tanks can be mounted on the two inboard under-wing hardpoints.[25] The fuel system is compatible with in-flight refueling (IFR), allowing tanker aircraft to refuel inflight, and increasing its range and loitering time significantly. All production aircraft for the PAF are to be fitted with IFR probes.[24] In June 2013, PAF Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt said ground tests on the JF-17's refueling probes had been successfully completed and the first mid-air refuelling operations would commence that summer.[104]

JF-17 Thunder with its weapons
Thunder with weapons

Armaments

The JF-17 can be armed with up to 3,400 lb (1,500 kg) of air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry, and other equipment mounted externally on the aircraft's seven hardpoints.[25] One hardpoint is located under the fuselage between the main landing gear, two are underneath each wing, and one is at each wing-tip. All seven hardpoints communicate via a MIL-STD-1760 data-bus architecture with the Stores Management System,[25] which is stated to be capable of integration with weaponry of any origin.[71] Internal armament comprises one 23 mm (0.91 in) GSh-23-2 twin-barrel cannon mounted under the port side air intake, which can be replaced with a 30 mm (1.2 in) GSh-30-2 twin-barrel cannon.[23][105]

The wing-tip hard-points are typically occupied by short range infra-red homing AAMs. Many combinations of ordnance and equipment such as targeting pods can be carried on the under-wing and under-fuselage hard-points. Underwing hard-points can be fitted with multiple ejector racks, allowing each hard-point to carry two 500 lb (230 kg) unguided bombs or LGBsMk.82 or GBU-12. It is unknown whether multiple ejector racks can be used for ordnance such as beyond visual range (BVR) AAMs.[24] Active radar homing BVR AAMs can be integrated with the radar and data-link for mid-course updates. The Chinese PL-12/SD-10 is expected to be the aircraft's primary BVR air-to-air weapon, although this may change if radars of other origin are fitted. Short range, infra-red homing missiles include the Chinese PL-5E and PL-9C. The PAF is also seeking to arm the JF-17 with a fifth generation close-combat missile such as the PL10E IRIS-T or A-Darter. These will be integrated with the HMS/D and the radar for targeting.[24][25]

Unguided air-to-ground weaponry includes rocket pods, gravity bombs and Matra Durandal anti-runway munitions. Precision-guided munitions such as LGBs and satellite-guided bombs are also compatible with the JF-17, as are other guided weapons such as anti-ship missiles and anti-radiation missiles.[25] Pakistan planned to bring the Brazilian MAR-1 anti-radiation missile into service on its JF-17 fleet in 2014.[106]

Operational history

Pakistan

The JF-17 which shot down the Iranian drone in 2017, now in service with the Thunder demo team (Kill mark visible on nose)

Small batch production of the single-seat, single-engine JF-17s began in China in June 2006. The first two small-batch-produced aircraft were delivered on 2 March 2007 and first flew in Pakistan on 10 March.[107] They took part in an aerial display on 23 March 2007 as part of the Pakistan Day Joint Services Parade in Islamabad.[108][109] Another six small-batch-produced aircraft were delivered by March 2008.[110] These were extensively flight-tested and evaluated by the PAF.[111] Two serial production aircraft were delivered from China in 2009 and the first Pakistani-manufactured aircraft was delivered to the PAF in a ceremony on 23 November 2009.[112]

On 18 February 2010, the first JF-17 squadron, No. 26 Black Spiders, was officially inducted into the PAF with an initial strength of 14 fighter planes.[113][114] These aircraft first saw service in the anti-terrorist operation in South Waziristan, during which various types of weapons were evaluated.[115] They took part in the PAF's High Mark 2010 exercise from 29 April, where they were used by the Blue Force to attack Red Land surface targets with precision air-to-surface weapons.[116][117]

On 11 April 2011, a re-equipment ceremony for No. 26 Black Spiders Squadron took place, during which it was stated that the JF-17 had "revolutionized the PAF's operational concepts". Then Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman reported the re-equipping of No. 26 squadron and the addition of the JF-17 Thunder to the No. 16 Squadron. He also thanked the contribution and support of the Chinese in helping to acquire a technological breakthrough in the shape of the aircraft.[118]

As of September 2015, the No. 2 Squadron currently tasked with sea strikes was reequipped with JF-17s replacing the F7s.[119] The No. 16 Squadron "Black Panthers" has also been equipped with the JF-17.[120] The next squadron is supposed to be No. 7 Squadron.[121]

On 19 June 2017, it was reported that a JF-17 shot down an Iranian UAV operating in Pakistan's Pangjur District.[122]

PAF JF-17s took part in Pakistan's retaliatory 2019 Jammu and Kashmir airstrikes, in which Pakistan shot down an Indian MiG-21.[123] According to unconfirmed reports,[124][125] the MiG-21 was shot down by a JF-17.

As of March 2021, JF-17s are operational in seven fighter squadrons based at five airbases.[126]

JF-17 has performed at airshows since 2010.[127][128] PAF JF-17s have taken part in joint exercises with the Chinese air force since at least 2014.[129][130] In 2021, PAF JF-17s exercised in Anatolian Eagle (alongside Azerbaijani MiG-29s and Su-25s, Qatari Rafales, and Turkish F-16s).[131] In 2022, PAF JF-17s exercised at "Spears of Victory" at King Abdulaziz Air Base, Saudi Arabia (alongside Saudi Tornados, Typhoons and F-15s, and USAF F-16s).[132]

Myanmar

Official commissioning of 7 aircraft to Myanmar Air Force including 4 JF-17 Thunders.

In July 2015, Myanmar ordered 16 JF-17s from Pakistan and China. In late 2015, Myanmar ordered 16 RD-93 spare engines from Russia, which were received in 2018 and 2019.[133] On 17 December 2018, Jane's disclosed that the Myanmar Air Force had received the first batch of JF-17Ms.[134] An official Myanmar Air Force video released on Air Force day showcased a number of JF-17s, both on static display and in the air.[135] Till date, the Myanmar Air Force has taken delivery of 7 JF-17M Block 2s - 5 JF-17As and 2 JF-17Bs.[136]

Nigeria

In December 2014, during the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar in Karachi, Nigeria was reportedly buying between 25 and 40 JF-17s from Pakistan. Nigerian Air Force (NAF) chief Air Marshal Adesola Nunayon Amosu had visited Pakistan earlier in October 2014.[137] Nigeria became the second customer in 2016 by placing an order for three planes. However, as the news reports value the deal at US$25 million, it is not clear if the item is misreported.[138][139] A June 2016 article in Jane's re-affirmed NAF budget for 3 JF-17, 10 Super Mushshak, and 2 Mi-35M aircraft in 2016.[140] According to Indian media, a deal to buy JF-17s might be signed in November with a MoU already signed.[141]

The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed[142] it is expecting delivery of JF-17 for use in military operations against Jihadi militants in Northern Nigeria.

In October 2018 Pakistan approved of the sale and local Nigerian production of three JF-17s for US$184.3 million. The aircraft are rumored to be of a later version than the initially agreed sale, providing more advanced systems.[143][144]

On 30 December 2020, the PAC rolled out three JF-17A Block 2s for NAF,[145] which were delivered to Makurdi Air Base in Nigeria in March 2021 aboard PAF Illyushin Il-78MP freighters.[146] Nigeria formally inducted the three JF-17s into its air force on 21 May 2021.[147]

NAF may order 35-40 more JF-17s if the aircraft meets its requirements.[148]

Iraq

In September 2021, Pakistani media reported that Iraq has placed an order for 12 JF-17s,[149][150] In a television interview aired by Al-Arabiya on 30 January 2022, Iraq's Defence Minister, Juma Inad, hinted at the acquisition of an unspecified military aircraft from Pakistan. He did not specify the type or quantity of aircraft to be purchased.[151]

Potential operators

  • Argentina At the 2013 Paris Air Show, officials from Argentine aerospace conglomerate Fábrica Argentina de Aviones (FAdeA) revealed that the firm had held multiple discussions with Chinese officials over a potential co-production of the FC-1/JF-17, for the Argentine Air Force (FAA); this was regarded as the first formal effort by Argentina to possibly procure, or co-produce the aircraft.[152] FAdeA officials said that the co-produced FC-1 could be classified as the "Pulqui-III", with regard to FAdeA's Pulqui-II fighter.[153]
In 2015, following a three-day visit by Argentine president Cristina Fernández de Kirchner to China, Argentina announced that it may purchase around 20 JF-17's from CAIG; however Argentina did not purchase the fighter that year.[154][155]
The JF-17 has reportedly appeared to be highly appealing to Argentina, given the aircraft's high-affordability and fewer parts of British-origin; the UK has barred any sale of military-equipment consisting of UK-manufactured parts to Argentina, ever since the British-Argentine 1982 Falklands War.[156][157] Argentina's earlier efforts to procure other aircraft, including the Mirage F1M, the IAI Kfir, the JAS 39 Gripen and the KAI FA-50 were scuttled due to UK-diplomatic pressure, since the aforementioned aircraft were found to contain UK-origin parts.[158][159][156] However, the JF-17 may still be subject to UK-scrutiny, since it utilizes the British-origin Martin-Baker PK16LE ejection seat; however, China has reportedly offered the Chinese-origin HTY-5D ejection seat (used on the Chengdu J-10), as a possible diplomatic alternative to the PK16LE.[160][161][159][162]
In September 2021, the Argentine government presented a draft budget for the fiscal year of 2022, which contained a request of USD $664 million for the acquisition of future fighter aircraft for the FAA.[163] However, multiple media outlets misinterpreted this action, erroneously reporting that the request for funds were for acquiring the JF-17 Block-III; this misinterpreted news would later become viral on social media.[164] Argentina's Ministry of Defense (Ministerio de Defensa) later clarified that the JF-17 had not been selected, asserting that the FAA was still evaluating five other aircraft as possible options.[163][165]
In December 2021, the Pakistani embassy in Argentina released a cryptic post on Instagram, claiming that Pakistan "may lose out" on selling JF-17's to Argentina; the embassy later asserted that its Instagram account had been hacked and that the cryptic message was not an official release.[166][167] The message has since then been deleted.[166]
In May 2022, the Argentine Air Force delegation evaluated the JF-17 Thunder in China, only the JF-17 and the Danish second-hand F-16 remain in the final stretch. The visit of the Argentine delegation to the CATIC (China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation) facilities, located in Chengdu.[168]
  • Azerbaijan In January 2008, Azerbaijan engaged in talks with Pakistan over JF-17's possible sale to Azerbaijan.[169] In 2015, the Azerbaijani Air Forces negotiated with China for several dozen JF-17s worth approximately US$16 to 18 million each.[170] In 2018, Pakistani Armed Forces actively discussed military and defence cooperation with Azerbaijan, culminating in the latter expressing an interest in purchasing the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet.[171] In December 2018, Turan, an independent Azerbaijani news agency, reported that the negotiations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan on the purchase of JF-17 Block II combat aircraft was coming to the end.[172] In December 2019, Azerbaijan, eyeing military cooperation with Pakistan, expressed its interest in purchasing JF-17 Thunder fighter bomber aircraft.[173]
  • Bolivia The JF-17 is a candidate for the replacement of retired Lockheed T-33 aircraft of the Bolivian Air Force.[174]
  • Malaysia Malaysia had periodically indicated that it may be interested in purchasing the JF-17 for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), as part of its efforts to replace its MIG-29 fleet; reports of Malaysian interest in the JF-17 emerged in 2015, although this was later denied.[175][176]
In March 2019, then-visiting Malaysian PM Mahathir bin Mohammad was accorded an aerial-display of the JF-17's at the 2019 Pakistan Day Parade; he was also briefed about the fighter by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).[177][178] Concurrently, multiple reports of Malaysia possibly procuring two JF-17 fighters for testing and combat-evaluation also emerged, though these reports have ever since remained unconfirmed.[179][180]
In June 2021, the RMAF formally released a tender for the supply of 18 light combat-aircraft — dubbed as the "Fighter Lead In Trainer-Light Combat Aircraft" (FLIT/LCA), in an effort to supplant its ageing BAE Hawk 108/208 light-combat aircraft and its MB-339CM trainer-aircraft.[181][182] The RMAF later issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to nine different aircraft-manufacturing conglomerates in July, with a submission-deadline of September 2021 (this would later be extended to October 2021).[183] The JF-17 was widely regarded to be a leading contender in the FLIT/LCA procurement initiative, along with the HAL Tejas and the KAI FA-50.[184]
However, in October 2021, the JF-17 was revealed to have abstained from participating in the FLIT/LCA tender; later reports confirmed that only six companies had responded to the RFP issued by the RMAF - the KAI FA-50 (Korea Aerospace Industries), the HAL Tejas (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited), the HAIC L-15 (China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation), the Aermacchi M-346 (Leonardo S.p.A.), the TAI Hürjet (Turkish Aerospace Industries) and the Mikoyan MiG-35 (Rosoboronexport).[183] The JF-17's unprecedented absence from the FLIT/LCA essentially ended all speculations regarding its participation in Malaysia.[185][183][186][187][188][189]
In December 2021, the JF-17 was reportedly re-offered to the RMAF, with an estimated price-discount of about 30%; however, these reports remain unconfirmed.[190]
  • Morocco Morocco has shown interest in the JF-17, having invited a sales team to showcase it in the Marrakech Air Show 2016.[191][192] According to a local analyst, a potential acquisition by Morocco may be complicated by incompatible technologies; the JF-17 Block I and Block II have broadly different electronics suites and air-to-air & air-to-surface munitions than its current Western-sourced aircraft, such as the Mirage F-1 (MF2000), F-5E/F Tiger II and Alpha Jet.[193]
  • Qatar Qatar has shown interest in the JF-17 since 2016.[194] In December 2019, at Qatar's invitation, PAF JF-17s participated in Qatar's National Day Flypast in Doha alongside Qatar Air Force Rafales and Mirage 2000-5s.[195]
  • Saudi Arabia In January 2014, the Royal Saudi Air Force was reportedly examining potential technology transfer and co-production opportunities for the JF-17. Saudi Deputy Minister of Defence Prince Salman bin Sultan toured the JF-17 project during a visit to Pakistan.[196][197][198]
  • Sri Lanka In June 2015, Pakistani media suggested that an export order had been confirmed with the Sri Lanka Air Force; claims were made that the JF-17's first sales contract had been signed with the Sri Lanka Air Force at the 51st Paris Air Show.[199][200] Other sources claimed that Myanmar is the first buyer of Pakistani JF-17s.[201] Reportedly, the order would cover around 18–24 aircraft and deliveries set to begin in 2017. During a state visit by Nawaz Sharif in January 2016, Sri Lanka reportedly signed an agreement to buy eight JF-17s from Pakistan;[202] however, the Sri Lankan government has issued denials.[203] The alleged deal was said to involve 10–12 aircraft, each valued at US$35 million, for a total of US$400 million[204] Reportedly, any such sale was scuppered by Indian diplomatic pressure.[205][206][207]
  • Sudan The Sudanese Air Force was reportedly negotiating to buy twelve aircraft.[208]
  • Zimbabwe The Air Force of Zimbabwe reportedly planned to purchase twelve JF-17s in 2004, as part of a $240 million deal with China. No such sales have materialized.[209][210] In 2010, China was reportedly in talks about the JF-17 with five or six countries, some of which had sent pilots to China to undergo test flights.[211]
  • Other countries Other countries including Bangladesh, Bulgaria,[212] Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait,[213] Peru,[214] South Africa,[215] Uruguay,[216] and Venezuela[217] have shown interest in the JF-17.[88][218]

Variants

Prototypes

  • PT-01 First airframe configuration prototype with splitter plates on intakes. Rolled out on 31 May 2003. First flight on 25 August 2003.[23]
  • PT-02 First airframe configuration prototype with splitter plates on intakes.
  • PT-03 First airframe configuration prototype with splitter plates on intakes. First flight in April 2004.
  • PT-04 Second airframe configuration prototype with Diverterless Supersonic Inlets (DSI) and modified vertical stabilizer. First flight on 10 May 2006. PT-04 incorporated modifications such as DSI, wider LERX, extended ventral fins, and a taller, less swept vertical stabilizer with a rectangular fairing at the tip containing electronic warfare equipment and small blister fairings at the base containing Missile Approach Warning sensors. The PT-04 prototype was primarily used for avionics and weapon qualification tests.[219][220]
  • PT-05 Second airframe configuration prototype with DSI and modified vertical stabilizer.
  • PT-06 Second airframe configuration prototype with DSI and modified vertical stabilizer.

Production variants

In chronological production order:

  • JF-17A Block 1 Single-seat variant of the JF-17 Block 1. Production in China began in June 2006[23] and in Pakistan in 2007. The first three Chinese weapons to be integrated are the PL-5E II AAM, the SD-10 AAM, and the C-802AK anti-ship missile. Block 1 aircraft had performed "better than expected" according to PAF Air Commodore Junaid. Production of Block 1 was completed on 18 December when the fiftieth aircraft58% of which was produced in Pakistanwas delivered.[221][222] A Block 1 JF-17 costs approximately US$15 million per unit.[25]
  • JF-17A Block 2 Single-seat variant of the JF-17 Block 2. Production began on 18 December 2013 and initial testing began on 9 February 2015.[223] Block 2 aircraft make use of composites in the airframe for reduced weight, air-to-air refuelling capability,[224] improved radar and avionics, enhanced load carrying capacity, data link, and electronic warfare capabilities.[79][80] Chairman of PAC, Air Marshal Javaid Ahmed said: "We will hand over 16 Block-II JF-17s to the PAF every year", and that the manufacturing plant has the capacity to produce 25 units in a year.[225] According to local media, PAC rolled out the 16th Block 2 aircraft in December 2015 enabling the JF-17's 4th squadron formation.[81] A Block 2 JF-17 costs approximately US$25 million per unit.[226]
  • JF-17B Block 2 Dual-seat variant of the JF-17 Block 2. First flight in Chengdu, China on 27 April 2017.[227][228] Serial production in China and Pakistan from 2018 to 2020. A total of 26 aircraft built - first four at Chengdu and remaining 22 at Kamra.[227] Its multi-roles include use as a (i) JF-17 conversion trainer; (ii) Lead-In Fighter Trainer (LIFT); (iii) ground-attack aircraft; and (iv) reconnaissance aircraft.[229] Apart from the dual-seat, larger dorsal spine, and a more swept-back tail, another difference between the JF-17B and the JF-17A is that the JF-17B carries fuel in its vertical stabiliser, which the JF-17A does not.[8] The JF-17B houses integral fuel tanks like the F-16. Each wing houses 550 Ib while the vertical tail houses 210 lb, which, together with the internal fuel load, totals 4,910 Ib of fuel. Together with the three external fuel drop-tanks, the aircraft can carry a total 10,000 Ib fuel load.[8] The JF-17B Block 2s will be retrofitted with the NRIET/CETC KLJ-7A Air-cooled Airborne Fire-Control Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar (license-manufactured at the Avionics Production Factory (APF) at PAC, Kamra).[8]
  • JF-17 Block 3 First flight in Chengdu, China on 15 December 2019. Two prototypes undergoing flight tests as of December 2020, one in China and the other in Pakistan. Went into serial production at PAC Kamra on 30 December 2020.[17] Projected to feature further advancements such as a NRIET/CETC KLJ-7A Air-cooled Airborne Fire-Control Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar (license-manufactured at the Avionics Production Factory (APF) at PAC, Kamra),[8] a three-axis digital fly-by-wire flight control system,[8] an infrared search and track (IRST) system,[230][231] a helmet-mounted display and sight (HMD/S) system produced jointly by Pakistan and China,[8] a missile approach warning system (MAWS) similar to the one used on the Chinese J-10C, J-16, and J-20, a new, larger, and thinner holographic wide-angle head-up display (HUD) similar to the one used on the J-10C and J-20, an enhanced electronic warfare management system,[8] a chin-mounted hardpoint,[8] use of more composites for further weight reduction, Klimov RD-93MA afterburning turbofan will be eventually replaced by Guizhou WS-13[224] with an increased thrust, and a better thrust-to-weight ratio.[80][137][232][8] The KLJ-7A can simultaneously track 15 targets and engage 4 targets.[233] PAF officials have described the JF-17 Block 3 as a "fourth generation plus" fighter jet. The first PAC-produced JF-17 Block 3 aircraft are expected to roll out of the production line in late 2021.[8] The PAF has placed an order for 50 JF-17 Block 3 aircraft, deliveries of which are expected to start from early 2022.[234][8][235] 10 JF-17 Block 3 production aircraft were photographed after their rollout at PAC Kamra in early January 2022.[236] As of 30 January 2022, these were yet to be inducted in the PAF.

Operators

Map with JF-17 operators in blue
 Iraq
  • Iraqi Air Force: 12 on order
 Myanmar
  • Myanmar Air Force: 7 delivered, 9 on order[237]
 Nigeria
 Pakistan
  • Pakistan Air Force: 138 delivered, 50 on order[242][243][238][234]
    • PAF Base Masroor (Karachi)
      • No. 2 Squadron Minhasians (2015)[244]
    • PAF Base Minhas (Kamra)
      • JF-17 TEF (Test & Evaluation Flight) (2007–2010)[245]
      • No.14 Squadron Tail Choppers (2017)[246]
      • No. 16 Squadron Black Panthers (2011)[118]
      • No. 18 Squadron Sharp Shooters (JF-17 OCU) (2020)[247][248]
    • PAF Base Mushaf (Sargodha)
      • CCS JF-17 Squadron Fierce Dragons (2015)[249]
    • PAF Base Peshawar[250]
      • No. 26 Squadron Black Spiders (2010)[118]
    • PAF Base Samungli (Quetta)

Accidents

Since its introduction in 2007, four JF-17s have crashed in accidents:

  • 14 November 2011: A PAF JF-17A crashed during a routine training flight in the mountainous Mullan Mansoor region of Attock District while flying from PAF Base Minhas. According to the official PAF report, the crash was caused by a technical malfunction. Pakistani news reported that the pilot, Squadron Leader Muhammad Hussain, ejected but was killed after his parachute failed to open, and that there were no civilian casualties reported on the ground. The pilot's body was discovered two kilometers from the crash site. This was the first known crash of a JF-17.[253][254][255][256][257]
  • 27 September 2016: A PAF JF-17 crashed during Exercise High Mark in the Arabian Sea. The pilot ejected successfully and was rescued from the sea. Martin-Baker, the manufacturer of the JF-17's ejection seats, later tweeted that the 15 September 2020 crash was the first ejection from a JF-17.[258][259]
  • 15 September 2020: A PAF JF-17A crashed during a routine training flight near Pindigheb, Attock District. The pilot ejected successfully and no loss of life was reported on the ground.[260] While the PAF did not identify the aircraft, ejection seat manufacturer Martin-Baker, whose seats are installed in the JF-17, said in a Twitter post, “a Pakistan Air Force JF-17 aircraft crashed earlier today during a routine training mission, the pilot ejected successfully," adding that this marked the first instance of an ejection from a JF-17 aircraft, which uses its Martin-Baker PK16LE ejection seats, contradicting Pakistani reports of prior ejections.[261][259]
  • 6 August 2021: A PAF JF-17B crashed during a routine training flight in Attock District. Both pilots ejected successfully and no loss of life was reported on the ground.[262][263][264]

Specifications (JF-17 Block 3)

Data from Pakistan Aeronautical Complex marketing brochure[265] and official website[266]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 1 (single-seat JF-17A) or 2 (dual-seat JF-17B)
  • Length: 14.326 m (47 ft 0 in)
  • Wingspan: 9.44 m (31 ft 0 in)
  • Height: 4.57 m (15 ft 0 in)
  • Wing area: 24.43 m2 (263.0 sq ft)
  • Empty weight: 7,965 kg (17,560 lb)
  • Max takeoff weight: 13,500 kg (29,762 lb) [266]
  • Fuel capacity: 3,000 L (2,449 kg) internal; 1 x 800 L (180 imp gal) centre-line drop tank; 2 x 800 L (180 imp gal) or 1,100 L (240 imp gal) inboard under-wing drop tanks[266]
  • Powerplant: 1 × Klimov RD-93 afterburning turbofan with DEEC, 49.4 kN (11,100 lbf) thrust [267] dry, 84.4 kN (19,000 lbf) with afterburner

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 1,910 km/h (1,190 mph, 1,030 kn)
  • Maximum speed: Mach 1.6[5]-1.8[268]
  • Cruise speed: 1,359 km/h (844 mph, 734 kn)
  • Stall speed: 150 km/h (93 mph, 81 kn)
  • Combat range: 1,200 km (750 mi, 650 nmi) (without refueling)[5]
  • Ferry range: 3,482 km (2,164 mi, 1,880 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 16,920[269] m (55,510 ft)
  • g limits: +8/-3 (limited by flight control system)
  • Rate of climb: 300 m/s (59,000 ft/min)
  • Thrust/weight: 1.07 with RD-93[266]

Armament

  • Guns: 1 × 23 mm GSh-23-2 twin-barrel cannon or 1 × 30 mm GSh-30-2 twin-barrel cannon
  • Hardpoints: 8 (2 × wingtip, 4 × under-wing, 1 × under-fuselage, 1 × chin) with capacity for dual ejector racks on each under-wing hardpoint.[270]
  • Payload: 3,700 kg (8,200 lb) external stores[271]
  • Missiles:
    • Air-to-air missiles:
      • PL-5EII — (Infrared-homing short range missile)
      • PL-9C — (Infrared-homing short range missile)
      • PL-10E — (Infrared-homing short range missile)[272][273]
      • R-Darter — (Radar-homing beyond visual range missile)
      • PL-12 (SD-10A) — (Radar-guided beyond visual range missile)[274]
      • PL-15E — (Radar-guided long range missile)[273]
    • Air-to-surface missiles:
      • CM-102 — (Anti-radiation missile)[274]
      • LD-10 — (Anti-radiation missile)
      • MAR-1 — (Anti-radiation missile)
      • Ra'ad-II — (Transonic land-attack cruise missile)
      • HD-1A — (Supersonic land-attack/anti-ship cruise missile)
    • Anti-ship missiles:
      • C-601 — (Anti-ship missile)
      • C-705KD — (Anti-ship missile)
      • C-802AK — (Supersonic anti-ship missile)
      • CM-400AKG - (Supersonic anti-ship missile)[275][276][277]
      • HD-1A — (Supersonic anti-ship/land-attack cruise missile)
  • Bombs:
    • Unguided bombs:
      • 250 kg — Pre-fragmented bomb
      • Mk-82 — (General-purpose bomb)
      • Mk-83 — (General-purpose bomb)
      • Mk-84 — (General-purpose bomb)
      • HAFR-1/HAFR-2 — (Anti-runway bomb)
      • RPB-1 — (Anti-runway bomb)
    • Guided bombs:
      • GBU-10 — (Laser-guided bomb)
      • GBU-12 — (Laser-guided bomb)
      • GBU-16 — (Laser-guided bomb)
      • LT-2 — (Laser-guided bomb)
      • H-2 SOW — (Precision-guided glide bomb)
      • H-4 SOW — (Precision-guided glide bomb)
      • GB-6 — (Precision-guided stealth glide bomb)
      • NORINCO GB-250A — (250 kg Extended Range GPS/INS-Guided Bomb)
      • NORINCO GB-500 — (500 kg Laser-Guided Bomb)
      • LS-6 — (Extended-range GPS/INS guided bomb)[278]
      • GIDS Takbir — (GPS/INS guided bomb)
      • GIDS Range Extension Kit — (GPS/INS guided bomb)[279]

Avionics

  • KLJ-7A — Active electronically scanned array (AESA) Fire-control radar[280]
  • 2 x ALR-67 - Radar Warning Receiver (RWR)
  • 4 x S740 - Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS)
  • JZ/YD 125 - IFF System
  • MIL-STD-1553 — data bus
  • Link-17 — Tactical Data Link
  • Others:
    • Aselsan ASELPOD — Advanced Targeting Pod (Electro-Optical Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Targeting System)[281]
    • WMD-7 — FLIR Day/Night Targeting Pod
    • KG600/KG700 — Airborne Electronic Countermeasure (ECM) / Self-Protection Jamming Pod[278]
    • Indra Systems ALQ-500P — ESM/ECM Pod
    • Countermeasures — Chaff, Flares[267]
    • Martin-Baker PK16LE zero-zero ejection seat[273]
    • Up to 3 external drop tanks — 1 x 800 L (180 imp gal) centre-line drop tank; 2 x 800 L (180 imp gal) or 1,100 L (240 imp gal) inboard under-wing drop tanks for extended range/loitering time[266]

See also

Related development

  • Project Sabre II

Related lists

  • List of active Pakistan Air Force aircraft
  • List of Chinese aircraft
  • List of fighter aircraft

References

Citations

  1. "Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra - JF-17 Thunder Aircraft". www.pac.org.pk. Archived from the original on 12 July 2020. Retrieved 7 January 2020.
  2. Osman, Ali (17 December 2015). "Pakistan's tool of war: PAF's rolling thunder". DAWN.COM. Archived from the original on 22 April 2021. Retrieved 19 April 2021.
  3. Gady, Franz-Stefan. "Report: JF-17 'Thunder' Block III Fighter Jet Production Is Underway". thediplomat.com. Archived from the original on 3 August 2020. Retrieved 27 October 2020.
  4. "China's Expert Fighter Designer Knows Jets, Avoids America's Mistakes". International Relations and Security Network (ISN). Archived from the original on 2 October 2015. Retrieved 4 September 2015.
  5. "Report: JF-17 'Thunder' Block III Fighter Jet Production Is Underway". The Diplomat. 13 March 2019. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |url= (help)
  6. Flightglobal – World Air Forces 2015 Archived 19 December 2014 at the Wayback Machine (PDF), Flightglobal.com
  7. "Pakistan meets JF-17 production target". Express Tribune. 29 December 2015. Archived from the original on 17 May 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  8. "Pride of Pakistan". www.airinternational.com. Archived from the original on 10 March 2021. Retrieved 2 March 2021.
  9. Khan, Bilal (17 October 2015). "JF-17 Block-2 and Block-3 Details Confirmed". quwa.org. Archived from the original on 7 May 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  10. "PAF No.14 'Tail choppers' Squadron re-equipped with JF-17 Thunder jets". Dawn. 16 February 2017. Archived from the original on 20 February 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  11. Khan, Bilal (7 December 2016). "Pakistan Aeronautical Complex delivered 70 JF-17S to the Pakistan Air Force". quwa.org. Archived from the original on 9 June 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  12. Khan, Bilal (15 January 2017). "JF-17 Block-II production crosses 30 planes". quwa.org. Archived from the original on 7 May 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  13. Gady, Franz-Stefan (3 May 2016). "Two-Seat Variant of China-Pakistan JF-17 Fighter Jet to Fly in 2016". The Diplomat. Archived from the original on 9 March 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  14. "Pakistan, China jointly launch production of JF-17B fighter jets". The Indian Express. 28 April 2016. Archived from the original on 1 May 2016. Retrieved 8 May 2016.
  15. Mateen Haider (28 April 2016). "PAF eyes induction of JF-17B fighter jet by April 2017". dawn.com. Archived from the original on 5 May 2016. Retrieved 8 May 2016.
  16. "PAC Kamra rolls out final 14 JF-17B fighters for Pakistan Air Force". Janes.com. Archived from the original on 11 January 2021. Retrieved 7 March 2021.
  17. "PAF launches serial production of latest JF-17 Thunder Block III". www.thenews.com.pk. Archived from the original on 1 January 2021. Retrieved 11 February 2021.
  18. "Fighter jets bomb militant hideouts in North Waziristan after Taliban attacks". Express Tribune. 21 January 2014. Archived from the original on 26 August 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  19. "Iranian drone shot down by PAF, confirms FO". 21 June 2017. Archived from the original on 8 March 2021. Retrieved 7 March 2021.
  20. Warnes, Alan (19 March 2020). "Operation Swift Retort one year on". Key Publishing. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  21. "Pakistan expands fighter force". Aviation Week. 22 December 2010. Archived from the original on 5 November 2011.
  22. "Joint Fighter-17 (JF-17) Thunder". Fighter Planes. Archived from the original on 1 September 2009. Retrieved 19 July 2009.
  23. "FC-1/JF-17 Multirole Fighter Aircraft". Sino Defence. Archived from the original on 4 December 2013. Retrieved 11 December 2018.
  24. Ansari, Usman, "Thunder Storm – Pakistan's hopes for the JF-17 Thunder fighter", Combat Aircraft magazine, vol. 8, no. 4, archived from the original on 7 September 2012, retrieved 11 December 2018
  25. "Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra – JF-17 Thunder Aircraft". pac.org.pk. Archived from the original on 11 January 2016. Retrieved 6 January 2016.
  26. "China's Expert Fighter Designer Knows Jets, Avoids America's Mistakes". International Relations and Security Network. Archived from the original on 21 December 2016. Retrieved 18 December 2016.
  27. "Pakistan Considers new Fighter Plan". Flight International. 14–20 March 1990. Archived from the original on 21 October 2012. Retrieved 18 October 2009.
  28. "Grumman to upgrade Chinese F-7Ms". Flight International. 26 November 1988. Archived from the original on 21 October 2014. Retrieved 15 February 2010.
  29. "CAC FC-1 Xiaolong". Jane's All the World's Aircraft. Jane's Information Group. 10 March 2009. Retrieved 29 July 2009.
  30. Warnes, Alan (July 2004), "Pakistan's Vision: Bridging The Capabilities Gap", Air Forces Monthly, p. 33
  31. "Mikoyan joins Chengdu on fighter", Flight International, 21 June 1995, archived from the original on 14 July 2014, retrieved 27 July 2009
  32. "Pakistan nears FC-1 avionics decision", Flight International, 18 October 1995, archived from the original on 25 July 2014, retrieved 21 July 2009
  33. "China/Pakistan signal intent to resume FC-1 development work", Flight International, 4 March 1998, archived from the original on 25 July 2014, retrieved 28 July 2009
  34. Lewis, Paul (28 April 1999). "Denel proposes advanced Darter derivatives". Flight International. Archived from the original on 25 July 2014. Retrieved 31 May 2011.
  35. "FC-1 JF-17 western engine options". Air Force World. 15 June 2012. Archived from the original on 24 June 2013. Retrieved 15 June 2013.
  36. "China and Pakistan agree on Super 7 fighter development work", Flight International, 14 July 1999, archived from the original on 26 May 2013, retrieved 27 July 2009
  37. "Marconi abandons FC-1 fighter bid", Flight International, 23 July 1999, archived from the original on 26 May 2013, retrieved 27 July 2009
  38. "Airshow China – FC-1 mock-up revealed", Flight International, 12 November 2002, archived from the original on 21 October 2014, retrieved 21 July 2009
  39. "Chinese Jets Today at Bygone Price". AviationWeek.com. Viadeo. 23 November 2010. Archived from the original on 11 January 2016. Retrieved 21 October 2014.
  40. "JF-17 and J-10: 21st Century Jets at Yesterday's Price". Aviation Week. 18 November 2010. Archived from the original on 11 January 2016. Retrieved 24 April 2011.
  41. Fisher, Richard (20 May 2010). "China's Aviation Sector: Building Toward World Class Capabilities". International Assessment and Strategy Center. Archived from the original on 31 May 2010. Retrieved 27 May 2010.
  42. Sobie, Brendan (29 July 2003), "Chengdu puts back Super-7 flight tests", Flight International, archived from the original on 14 July 2014, retrieved 28 July 2009
  43. "Sino-Pakistani fighter flies", Flight International, 9 September 2003, archived from the original on 14 July 2014, retrieved 28 July 2009
  44. "Flight testing the FC-1/JF-17", Flight International, 23 March 2004, archived from the original on 2 January 2015, retrieved 22 July 2009
  45. "PAC readies for assembly ramp up". Flight International. Archived from the original on 14 May 2013. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  46. Warwick, Graham (8 May 2006), "Pictures: China's Chengdu FC-1 fighter performs first flight with JSF-style engine inlets", Flight International, archived from the original on 22 February 2014, retrieved 28 July 2009
  47. Hewson, Robert, "Sino-Pakistani fighter improved", Jane's Information Group, archived from the original on 28 February 2007, retrieved 27 July 2009
  48. Sobie, Brendan (27 September 2005), "Test flaws prompt rethink on China's FC-1 light fighter look", Flight International, archived from the original on 24 June 2008, retrieved 21 July 2009
  49. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao's press conference on May 16, 2006, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China, 17 May 2006, archived from the original on 2 November 2013, retrieved 25 September 2009
  50. Hehs, Eric (July 2000), "JSF Diverterless Supersonic Inlet", Code One magazine, archived from the original on 24 November 2009, retrieved 28 July 2009
  51. "50th indigenously produced JF-17 Thunder rolls-out at PAC Kamra". Associated Press of Pakistan. 18 December 2013. Archived from the original on 6 October 2014. Retrieved 26 June 2014.
  52. "4th Prototype JF-17 'Thunder' aircraft successfully completed inaugural flight", PakTribune (Pakistani news website), archived from the original on 24 June 2009, retrieved 23 July 2009
  53. Tong, Hui, FC-1/JF-17 Thunder Dragon/Thunder, archived from the original on 15 June 2012, retrieved 2 August 2009
  54. "JF-17 Signing". Escape (newsletter). Martin-Baker. September 2008. p. 1. Archived from the original on 3 April 2012. Retrieved 9 June 2011.
  55. Ali, Mayed (31 March 2007), "JF-17 engine row resolved: Air chief", The News International, PK, archived from the original on 1 September 2007, retrieved 23 August 2009
  56. Fisher, Richard Jr. (20 January 2008), Chinese Dimensions of the 2007 Dubai Airshow, International Assessment and Strategy Center (IASC), archived from the original on 15 July 2009, retrieved 6 August 2009
  57. Perrett, Bradley (15 February 2012). "Avic, Pakistan Working on JF-17 Two-Seater". Archived from the original on 7 October 2015. Retrieved 15 February 2012.
  58. Johnson, Reuben F. (29 November 2007), Pakistan considers mix of Chinese, French weapons for its JF-17s, Jane's Information Group, archived from the original on 25 February 2008, retrieved 28 July 2009
  59. Manufacturing of JF-17 Thunder Sub-Assemblies Commence at PAC, Kamra, Pakistan Air Force
  60. Malik, Yaqoob (23 January 2008), Sub-assembly of Thunder aircraft begins at Kamra, Dawn News, archived from the original on 14 July 2014, retrieved 23 August 2009
  61. Jennings, Gareth (24 January 2008), JF-17 production commences, Jane's Information Group, archived from the original on 6 June 2009, retrieved 23 August 2009
  62. Govindasamy, Siva (1 July 2009), "Pakistan begins domestic final assembly of JF-17", Flight International, archived from the original on 3 January 2015, retrieved 23 August 2009
  63. "Russian engines will fly to Pakistan". Kommersant. Archived from the original on 14 July 2014. Retrieved 27 February 2013.
  64. "100 Countries Expected To Attend IDEAS 2008". The Daily Star. 22 November 2008. Archived from the original on 2 January 2015. Retrieved 2 January 2014.
  65. "Russian combat aircraft makers fear competition with China". RU. RIA Novosti. Archived from the original on 27 July 2014. Retrieved 29 August 2010.
  66. "Russia's Iconic MiG and Sukhoi Fighters Enter Competition with Chinese Clones", Pravda, 6 July 2010, archived from the original on 9 July 2010, retrieved 6 July 2010
  67. Ansari, Usman (19 July 2010). "Farnborough Debut Heralds JF-17 Export Drive". Defence News. Archived from the original on 3 January 2015. Retrieved 25 May 2011.
  68. "Russia to sell additional RD-93 jet engines to China". Rianovosti. 16 November 2010. Archived from the original on 21 October 2014. Retrieved 21 October 2014.
  69. "Pakistan to boost JF-17 production by 25% in '16". Archived from the original on 18 September 2016. Retrieved 20 August 2016.
  70. "Italian Grifo family", Selex (PDF) (datasheet), Sensors and Airborne Systems, archived from the original (PDF) on 25 March 2007
  71. Ansari, Usman (9 February 2009), "Pakistan Surmounts Sanctions To Revive Airpower", Defense News, archived from the original on 30 December 2014
  72. "French-Led JF-17 Upgrade Likely To Raise Eyebrows". Aviation Week. Archived from the original on 11 January 2016. Retrieved 2 January 2014.
  73. "Will Westernized JF-17 Thunder Attract New Delhi's Ire?". Aviation Week. Archived from the original on 11 January 2016. Retrieved 2 January 2014.
  74. Follorou, Jacques (2 April 2010). "Paris bloque un contrat d'équipement français d'avions de chasse pakistanais" [Paris blocks a contract of French equipment for Pakistani fighter aircraft]. Le Monde (in French). Archived from the original on 6 April 2010. Google English translation. Archived 13 March 2017 at the Wayback Machine
  75. "France says arms sale to Pakistan held up", Dawn, 2 April 2010, archived from the original on 15 February 2015
  76. "Un contrat militaire avec le Pakistan bloqué par Paris" [A contract with the Pakistan military blocked by Paris] (in French). France: Radio France Internationale. 3 April 2010. Archived from the original on 14 May 2013. Retrieved 5 April 2010.
  77. Warnes, Alan (July 2010). "On the edge – JF-17s, Tankers and AWACS". Air Forces Monthly (magazine). United Kingdom (July 2010): 54. Reports in late March that the French Government was refusing to allow the sale of a Thales avionics system was denied by the CAS: 'I saw the report quoting unnamed sources or any French government official. I have had discussions with French Government officials who have assured me that this is not the position of their government. I think someone is trying to cause mischief – to put pressure on France not to supply the avionics we want.'
  78. "JF-17 Thunder Block 2 Will be Ready till June 2014". Pakistan Armed Forces News. 19 December 2013. Archived from the original on 14 July 2014.
  79. Panda, Ankit (27 December 2013). "Pakistan Begins Producing Block-II JF-17 Aircraft". thediplomat.com. The Diplomat. Archived from the original on 26 July 2014. Retrieved 23 January 2014.
  80. "Production of improved version of JF-17 aircraft launched". Dawn. 19 December 2013. Archived from the original on 5 June 2014.
  81. "Fourth JF-17 Thunder squadron complete as PAC rolls out 16th aircraft". Dawn. 28 December 2015. Archived from the original on 6 April 2017.
  82. "Bogey: JF-17 'Thunder' crash jolts plans to sell aircraft". The Express Tribune. 15 November 2011. Archived from the original on 5 July 2021. Retrieved 15 September 2020.
  83. Richard D Fisher Jr's "Paris Air Show 2015: JF-17 fighter flying with indigenous Chinese turbofan" Archived 21 April 2016 at the Wayback Machine Jane's Defence Weekly, 17 June 2015.
  84. "PAF to induct JF17 Thunder Block III in 2016". Archived from the original on 13 May 2016. Retrieved 27 April 2016.
  85. "Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder fighter jet impresses at Paris Air Show". Archived from the original on 3 May 2016. Retrieved 27 April 2016.
  86. "Selex advances M-345 cockpit development". Archived from the original on 30 May 2016. Retrieved 27 April 2016.
  87. "Russia confirms progress on new jet engine. Is it for Pak JF-17 fighter?". TheWeek Magazine. 9 July 2020. Archived from the original on 27 January 2021.
  88. "Stuck in Sichuan: Pakistani JF-17 Program Grounded? No", Defense Industry Daily, January 2007, archived from the original on 20 October 2013
  89. "8011-Ai760Datasheet.qxd" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 7 April 2012. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  90. "JF-17 Arrived in Pakistan", Air Forces Monthly, MILAVIA.net, 23 March 2007, archived from the original on 18 December 2007, retrieved 31 March 2008
  91. "KLJ-7/10 Fire Control Radar (FCR) (China), Airborne radar systems", Jane's Avionics, Jane's Information Group, 19 January 2009, archived from the original on 2 October 2010
  92. "China's NRIET outlines fighter radar improvements", Jane's Defence Weekly, Jane's Information Group, 7 April 2008, archived from the original on 20 August 2012, retrieved 6 August 2009
  93. "Interview: Pakistan wants air force upgrade for prolonged militant fight". Reuters. 7 April 2016. Archived from the original on 20 April 2016. Retrieved 27 April 2016.
  94. "JF-17 Tests Turkish Targeting Pod". defense-aerospace.com. Archived from the original on 6 December 2018. Retrieved 6 December 2018.
  95. "图文:枭龙04飞行员新头盔_新浪军事_新浪网". sina.com.cn. Archived from the original on 11 January 2016. Retrieved 6 January 2016.
  96. "International Assessment and Strategy Center > Research > October Surprises in Chinese Aerospace". Strategycenter.net. 30 December 2009. Archived from the original on 13 August 2015. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  97. "VHF air-ground Digital Link" (PDF). etsi.org. Archived from the original (PDF) on 6 December 2013. Retrieved 5 July 2014.
  98. "FC-1 / JF-17 Thunder". Global Security. Archived from the original on 16 June 2020.
  99. "Pakistan & China's JF-17 Fighter Program." Archived 20 October 2013 at the Wayback Machine Defense Industry Daily, 14 November 2011
  100. Fisher, Richard Jr. (30 December 2009). "October Surprises in Chinese Aerospace". International Assessment and Strategy Center. Archived from the original on 13 August 2015. Retrieved 25 February 2010.
  101. "Paris Air Show 2015: JF-17 fighter flying with indigenous Chinese turbofan". Jane’s. Archived from the original on 21 April 2016. Retrieved 6 January 2016.
  102. Gady, Franz-Stefan (25 November 2015). "Pakistan to Stick With Russian Engine for JF-17 Fighter Jet". thediplomat.com. IHS. Archived from the original on 25 November 2015. Retrieved 24 November 2015.
  103. Moscow makes a move when US loosens the noose, 25 January 2016, archived from the original on 4 February 2016, retrieved 9 February 2016
  104. Bokhari, Farhan (10 June 2013). "Pakistani JF-17 to start mid-air refuelling by end of summer". Jane's Defence Weekly. Archived from the original on 7 November 2013. Retrieved 21 June 2013.
  105. Niels Hillebrand. "MILAVIA Aircraft – Chengdu FC-1/JF-17 Thunder Specifications". milavia.net. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 6 January 2016.
  106. Hewson, Robert (17 April 2013). "Mectron's MAR-1 to be operational in Pakistan next year". Jane's Defence Weekly. Archived from the original on 28 September 2013. Retrieved 26 September 2013.
  107. "JF-17 engine row resolved: Air chief". The News International. Archived from the original on 1 September 2007. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  108. "PAF to seek more Chinese aircraft, says air chief". The News International. Archived from the original on 9 May 2008. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  109. JF-17 Thunder main focus of attention at Pak Day fly-past Archived 27 September 2007 at the Wayback Machine. Pak Tribune, 24 March 2007.
  110. "Six more JF-17 Thunder fighter jets inducted into PAF". Daily Times. 15 March 2008. Archived from the original on 18 January 2012. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  111. "PAF to start serial production of JF-17 fighter aircraft soon". App.com.pk. Archived from the original on 30 March 2010. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  112. "Pak, China unveil first JF-17 combat jet". Rediff.com. 23 November 2009. Archived from the original on 1 March 2010. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  113. "First Squadron of JF-17 Thunder inducted in PAF". App.com.pk. Archived from the original on 22 December 2015. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  114. "PAF Inducts First Squadron of JF-17 Thunder Jet". Khaleejtimes.com. 19 February 2010. Archived from the original on 13 May 2011. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  115. Tanouli, Zia. "جے ایف-١٧ میں باقاعدہ طور پر شامل پی اے ایف". Daily Express (Pakistan) (in Urdu). Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 20 February 2010. (Translated) No.26 Squadron established in Kamra with 14 aircraft initially inducted. According to top PAF sources, fourteen aircraft were evaluated thoroughly with different kinds of weapons during the anti-terror operation in Waziristan. First squadron established in Kamra due to security concerns, will be transferred to Peshawar later. With induction of first JF-17 squadron, the two A-5 squadrons will be grounded today.
  116. "JF-17 Thunder comes of age at High Mark drill". Newspaper article. Awaz Today. 29 March 2010. Archived from the original on 14 July 2014. Retrieved 3 April 2010.
  117. "Pakistan inducts JF-17 jets developed with China". Rediff.com. 18 February 2010. Archived from the original on 28 May 2010. Retrieved 29 August 2010.
  118. "PAF re-equips No 26 Squadron with JF-17 thunder aircraft". Daily Times (Pakistan). 12 April 2011. Archived from the original on 14 July 2014. Retrieved 12 April 2011.
  119. "JF-17 Thunder inducted in Multi Role Squadron". 12 April 2016. Archived from the original on 14 April 2016. Retrieved 12 April 2016.
  120. "JF-17 Block-2 Update from "The Thunder City". Archived from the original on 20 February 2016. Retrieved 8 February 2016.
  121. "JF-17 Thunder Block-II replaces F-7P Skybolt of the Number 2 Minhas Squadron". Archived from the original on 7 March 2016. Retrieved 7 February 2016.
  122. "JF-17 shoots down Iran's spy drone". The Nation. Archived from the original on 21 June 2017. Retrieved 21 June 2017.
  123. Warnes, Alan (19 March 2020). "Operation Swift Retort one year on". Key Publishing. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  124. Lennon, Brad (4 March 2019). "Crisis may be easing, but nuclear threat still hangs over India and Pakistan". CNN. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  125. Gady, Franz-Stefan. "Has Pakistan's JF-17 'Thunder' Block II Fighter Jet Engaged in its First Dogfight?". thediplomat.com. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  126. "Orbats". www.scramble.nl. Archived from the original on 2 February 2021. Retrieved 20 April 2021.
  127. Donald, David. "Pakistan's JF-17 thunders onto the Farnborough stage". Aviation International News. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  128. APP (24 June 2019). "JF-17 becomes star attraction at Paris Air Show". DAWN.COM. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  129. Haider, Mateen (24 May 2014). "Pakistan, China air forces begin joint drills "Shaheen-III"". DAWN.COM. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  130. "Pak-China joint air force drills continue at China's Korla Air Base". Geo News. 25 September 2017. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  131. Cenciotti, David (14 July 2021). "Azerbaijan, Pakistan And Qatar Emiri Air Force Combat Aircraft Stole The Scene At Anatolian Eagle 2021 in Turkey". The Aviationist. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  132. Herk, Hans van. "Spears of Victory 2022". www.scramble.nl. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  133. "SIPRI Trade Register". Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. Archived from the original on 14 April 2010. Retrieved 15 September 2020.
  134. Jennings, Gareth. "Myanmar shows off Thunder fighters". Jane's Defence Weekly. Archived from the original on 17 December 2018. Retrieved 17 December 2018.
  135. "YouTube". youtube.com. Archived from the original on 30 October 2021. Retrieved 21 December 2018.
  136. "World Air Forces 2020". Flightglobal Insight. 2020. Archived from the original on 23 January 2020. Retrieved 16 January 2020.
  137. "IDEAS 2014: Nigeria 'close to signing up' for JF-17". Farhan Bokhari. Janes. 2 December 2014. Archived from the original on 26 December 2014. Retrieved 2 January 2015.
  138. "Nigeria to become first JF-17 export operator". Archived from the original on 28 January 2016. Retrieved 7 February 2016.
  139. "FG to spend N65bn on warplanes, weapons, others". Archived from the original on 6 January 2016.
  140. "Nigeria waiting for US to approve Super Tucano sale". Archived from the original on 8 June 2016. Retrieved 8 June 2016.
  141. "Nigeria to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft from Pakistan; Turkey to buy Super". 17 September 2016. Archived from the original on 5 November 2016. Retrieved 4 November 2016.
  142. Khan, Bilal (4 January 2017). "Official 2016 Nigerian Budget Confirms JF-17 Order". quwa.org. Archived from the original on 10 May 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  143. Binnie, Jeremy (25 October 2018). "Pakistan approves Nigerian JF-17 production". IHS Jane's 360. London. Archived from the original on 25 October 2018. Retrieved 29 October 2018.
  144. Jamal, Sana (26 October 2018). "Pakistan to sell three JF-17s to Nigeria for $184.3m". Gulf News. Islamabad. Archived from the original on 26 October 2018. Retrieved 29 October 2018.
  145. "JF-17 Thunder Jets Spotted in Nigerian AF Colors, Ready for Delivery". defenceworld.net. 7 November 2020. Archived from the original on 4 December 2020. Retrieved 11 January 2021.
  146. "First of 3 Pakistani JF-17 Jets Arrive in Nigeria". www.defenseworld.net. 24 March 2021. Archived from the original on 25 March 2021. Retrieved 25 March 2021.
  147. "Nigerian Air Force inducts three JF-17 Thunder multirole aircraft". www.airforce-technology.com. 21 May 2021. Archived from the original on 21 May 2021. Retrieved 21 May 2021.
  148. "JF-17 Thunder Jets Spotted in Nigerian AF Colors, Ready for Delivery". www.defenseworld.net. Archived from the original on 4 December 2020. Retrieved 22 March 2021.
  149. "Iraq to buy 12 JF-17 Thunder jets from Pakistan". The Nation. 25 September 2021. Archived from the original on 25 September 2021. Retrieved 11 October 2021.
  150. "Iraq plans to buy 12 JF-17 Thunder jets from Pakistan: reports". Daily Pakistan Global. 26 September 2021. Archived from the original on 3 October 2021. Retrieved 11 October 2021.
  151. "Iraqi defence minister confirms purchase of fighter jets from Pakistan". Global Village Space. 31 January 2022. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  152. "Argentine officials confirm joint-production talks over China's FC-1 fighter - IHS Jane's 360". www.janes.com. Archived from the original on 6 November 2013. Retrieved 11 January 2022.
  153. "Argentine officials confirm joint-production talks over China's FC-1 fighter". Jane's. 23 June 2013. Archived from the original on 6 November 2013.
  154. "China to Supply 20 Thunder Fighter Jets to Argentina". www.defenseworld.net. Archived from the original on 16 February 2015. Retrieved 11 January 2022.
  155. Lahrichi, Kamilia (9 April 2015). "Argentina turns to China for arms supply". Nikkei. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  156. "Could Britain stop Argentina from buying the JF-17 warplane?". 28 September 2021.
  157. "No KAI FA-50 for Argentina under the post-1982 embargo". aircosmosinternational.com. Archived from the original on 29 November 2020.
  158. Waldron, Greg (3 November 2020). "UK shoots down Argentine FA-50 deal". Flightglobal. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  159. "Argentina's purchase of Korean fighters falls through: UK's arms embargo". 21 June 2021. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  160. Venckunas, Valius (22 September 2021). "Fact check: is Argentina buying Pakistani-Chinese JF-17 Thunder fighter jets?". Aerotime. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  161. Horta, Loro (21 July 2021). "Why China wants to power Argentina's air force modernisation". Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  162. "Propuesta de aeronave FC 1 JF 17 a la republica argentina" (in Spanish). 22 May 2021. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  163. Dubois, Gastón (21 September 2021). "The Argentine Ministry of Defense clarifies about the JF-17 Thunder". Aviacionline.com (in Spanish). Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  164. "Argentina hasn't selected JF-17 fighter? Govt clarifies budget request". 22 September 2021. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  165. "'Not Purchasing Pakistani JF-17s' -- Argentina Shoots Down Media Reports over Fighter Jet Acquisition". 25 September 2021.
  166. "Pakistan mission in Argentina posts cryptic message on J17 fighter jet; blames Imran Khan government". WION. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  167. Mohan, Geeta (22 December 2021). "May 'lose out' JF-17 deal with Argentina, says Pak embassy in Insta post; later claims account 'hacked'". India Today. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  168. "Argentine Air Force delegation evaluated the JF-17 Thunder in China". Aviacionline. 21 May 2022.
  169. "Azerbaijan to buy JF-17 aircrafts [sic] from Pakistan". Azeri Press Agency. 29 January 2008. Archived from the original on 11 January 2021. Retrieved 11 January 2021.
  170. "China supplies FC-1 multipurpose fighters to Azerbaijan", News, AM, archived from the original on 2 April 2015, retrieved 28 February 2015
  171. Hussain, Shahid (19 May 2020). "Pakistan and Azerbaijan: Deepening a Mutually Beneficial Relationship". The Diplomat. Archived from the original on 19 May 2020. Retrieved 11 January 2021.
  172. "Azerbaijan to buy JF-17 Blok II combat aircraft from Pakistan". Turan Information Agency. 1 December 2018. Archived from the original on 30 September 2020. Retrieved 11 January 2021.
  173. "Azerbaijan, Pakistan eye military cooperation". AzerNews. 10 December 2019. Archived from the original on 11 January 2021. Retrieved 11 January 2021.
  174. "Bolivia Air Force is looking for fighter jets". 29 May 2021. Archived from the original on 28 June 2021. Retrieved 28 June 2021.
  175. Ansari, Usman (21 December 2015). "Malaysia Denies Interest in JF-17, But Export Hopes Remain". Defense News. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  176. Baker, Benjamin David. "The Sino-Pakistani JF-17 Might Have Another Buyer in Asia". thediplomat.com. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  177. "Mahathir Mohamad receives briefing on JF-17 before leaving Islamabad". www.thenews.com.pk. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  178. "Malaysian PM Mahathir shows interest in JF-17 Thunder as he concludes Pakistan visit". The Express Tribune. 23 March 2019. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  179. "Malaysia to buy two JF-17 Thunder Fighter Jets for Tests and Evaluation". 30 March 2019.
  180. "Military Watch Magazine".
  181. "Malaysia puts pen to paper for LCA tender | Shephard". www.shephardmedia.com. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  182. "Malaysia to Formally Launch Fighter Lead In Trainer-Light Combat Aircraft (FLIT/LCA) Tender". MilitaryLeak. 22 June 2021. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  183. "Six companies bidding for RMAF LCA contract". 18 October 2021.
  184. "Malaysia formally launches tender for new trainer, light combat aircraft".
  185. "Six contenders for Royal Malaysian Air Force light combat aircraft tender". www.airrecognition.com. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  186. "Malaysia begins evaluating proposals to replace fleet of Hawk Mk 108/208s". Janes.com. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  187. Banerjee, Aritra (25 October 2021). "With JF-17 Out, India's HAL Tejas 'On Verge' Of Winning Malaysian Military Aircraft Tender". Eurasian Times. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  188. Socka, Sherman (1 December 2021). "LETTER | RMAF purchase of Light Combat Aircraft to bolster defence industry". Malaysiakini. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  189. Venckunas, Valius. "Reports on Malaysian fighter jet tender: Tejas in, JF-17 out". www.aerotime.aero. Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  190. Gumelar, Tri Agung. "Saingi HAL Tejas di Malaysia, China Turunkan Harga Jet Tempur JF-17 Thunder hingga 30 Persen - Zona Jakarta". zonajakarta.pikiran-rakyat.com (in Indonesian). Retrieved 19 May 2022.
  191. "JF-17 to Star in Marrakech Air Show". Archived from the original on 2 February 2016. Retrieved 9 February 2016.
  192. "Marrakech Air Show Invites Pakistan to Showcase JF −17 Thunder Fighter Jet". Archived from the original on 22 February 2016. Retrieved 9 February 2016.
  193. "Pakistan looks to market the JF-17 Thunder to Morocco". Archived from the original on 26 April 2016. Retrieved 26 April 2016.
  194. "Qatar Plans To Buy Pak JF-17 Fighter Jet, Super Mushshak Trainer". www.defenseworld.net. 27 October 2016. Archived from the original on 6 May 2021. Retrieved 4 March 2021.
  195. "Flypast during Qatar National Day Hints at Doha's Interest in Pakistani JF-17". www.defenseworld.net. 19 December 2019. Archived from the original on 5 March 2021. Retrieved 4 March 2021.
  196. "Saudi eyeing Pakistan's JF-17 fighter jet, modeled from U.S. F-16". World Tribune. 23 January 2014. Archived from the original on 6 July 2014.
  197. "Saudi Arabia May Buy Pakistani-Chinese Fighter Jets". The Diplomat. 24 January 2014. Archived from the original on 26 July 2014.
  198. Khan, Bilal (8 November 2016). "Saudi Arabia Reportedly Interested in the JF-17 Thunder". Quwa Defence News & Analysis Group. Archived from the original on 9 November 2016.
  199. "Sri Lanka revealed as first foreign buyer of JF-17". Want China Times. 23 June 2015. Archived from the original on 23 June 2015.
  200. Iqbal, Wasim (22 June 2015). "Sri Lanka purchasing JF-17 Thunder Jets". Business Recorder. Archived from the original on 23 June 2015.
  201. "Myanmar first country to purchase JF-17 Thunder from Pakistan". Dunya News. 9 July 2015. Archived from the original on 30 October 2021. Retrieved 21 July 2015.
  202. Franz-Stefan Gady. "Sri Lanka to Buy 8 Sino-Pak JF-17 Fighter Jets". The Diplomat. Archived from the original on 9 January 2016. Retrieved 7 January 2016.
  203. "Government says no JF-17 deal with Pakistan". Columbo Gazette. 7 January 2016. Archived from the original on 26 January 2016.
  204. "Following Myanmar, Pakistan is Eager to Sell More JF-17s". Archived from the original on 13 February 2016. Retrieved 7 February 2016.
  205. "Indian pressure stalls Pakistani JF-17 sale to Sri Lanka". Archived from the original on 13 February 2016. Retrieved 7 February 2016.
  206. "Revealed: Why Sri Lanka Backed Off the Sino-Pakistani JF-17 Thunder". Archived from the original on 15 February 2016. Retrieved 9 February 2016.
  207. "Pakistan to sell JF-17 fighter jets to SL-report". The Daily Mirror (Sri Lanka). 27 October 2013. Archived from the original on 23 May 2014.
  208. "China sells arms to Sudan". Sudan Tribune. Archived from the original on 19 August 2010. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  209. Robert I. Rotberg (1 October 2009). China into Africa: Trade, Aid, and Influence. Brookings Institution Press. p. 174. ISBN 978-0-8157-0175-0. Archived from the original on 11 January 2016. Retrieved 15 November 2015.
  210. Shinn, David H., Africa and China's Global Activism (PDF), Elliott School of International Affairs, The George Washington University, archived from the original (PDF) on 16 June 2013
  211. "Asian fighter requirements continue to grow". Flight International. Archived from the original on 21 October 2014. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  212. Zafar Bakhtawari (7 March 2019). "Bulgarian embassy reception participants hail PM for de-escalating tension with India". The Nation (Pakistan). Archived from the original on 24 March 2019.
  213. Khan, Bilal (7 August 2016). "Pakistan offers JF-17 & Super Mushshak to Kuwait". Quwa - Defence News & Analysis. Archived from the original on 22 April 2020.
  214. "Here's Why Pakistan's JF-17 Is A Viable Alternative To The American F-16". Wonderful Engineering. 21 March 2019. Archived from the original on 23 July 2020. Retrieved 23 July 2020. As of right now, Saudia Arabia, Albania, Morocco, Bulgaria, Malaysia, Egypt, Sudan, Iraq, Oman, Lebanon, Argentina, Algeria, Jordan, and Peru are evaluating the JF-17 Block III
  215. Siddiqui, Naveed (27 March 2017). "Pakistan, South Africa sign agreements to increase defense cooperation". Dawn. Archived from the original on 30 October 2021. Retrieved 2 May 2020.
  216. JF_17_Fighter_Leading_Pakistan_Defence_Equipment_Export_Success
  217. "JF-17 Thunder". GlobalSecurity. Archived from the original on 21 September 2019.
  218. "PAF gets six JF-17 Thunder aircraft". Dawn. 15 March 2008. Archived from the original on 10 August 2014.
  219. "4th Prototype JF-17 Thunder aircraft successfully completed inaugural flight". Pakistan Tribune. Islamabad. 11 May 2006. Archived from the original on 24 June 2009. Retrieved 21 May 2011.
  220. "JF-17 Thunder arrives in Pakistan". Associated Press of Pakistan. 12 March 2007. Archived from the original on 22 October 2014. Retrieved 30 June 2014.
  221. Allport, Dave; Warnes, Alan (September 2010). "JF-17 Thunders in First Public Static Display". Air Forces Monthly (269): 8.
  222. "Pakistan Rolls Out 50th JF-17, Block II Production To Commence". Defense News. 18 December 2013. Archived from the original on 20 December 2013. Retrieved 29 June 2014.
  223. "Block 2 JF-17 makes first flight ahead of Block 3 improvements". janes.com. Archived from the original on 19 January 2016. Retrieved 3 February 2016.
  224. Roblin, Sebastien (10 August 2019). "Meet the JF-17 Block III Fighter: The Jet China is Helping Pakistan Build to Fight India". The National Interest. Archived from the original on 8 November 2020. Retrieved 23 July 2021.
  225. "Pakistan looks to boost military export with revamped JF-17". Pakistan Today. 7 December 2014. Archived from the original on 2 January 2015. Retrieved 2 January 2015.
  226. Rehmat, Adnan (24 May 2011), "Sky Wars: Pakistan, India and China", Dawn, archived from the original on 14 July 2014, retrieved 29 June 2014
  227. "Military Flight Training MENA 2021". www.arabianaerospace.aero. Archived from the original on 16 February 2021. Retrieved 19 February 2021.
  228. Siddiqui, Naveed (28 April 2017). "JF-17B fighter jet takes maiden test flight". Dawn. Archived from the original on 28 April 2017. Retrieved 28 April 2017.
  229. "PAF to induct dual-seater JF-17B fighter jet in April 2017". Express Tribune. 28 April 2016. Archived from the original on 3 May 2016. Retrieved 8 May 2016.
  230. "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 7 November 2016.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  231. Warnes, Alan (1 February 2017). "Rolling Thunder". Asian Military Review. Archived from the original on 8 February 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  232. Warnes, Alan (17 March 2015). "Block 2 JF-17 makes first flight ahead of Block 3 improvements". Jane's Defence Weekly. Kamra. Archived from the original on 22 March 2015. Retrieved 24 March 2015.
  233. Khan, Bilal (31 October 2016). "KLJ-7A: Proposed AESA Radar for the JF-17 Block-III". quwa.org. Archived from the original on 7 May 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  234. Aamir, Adnan (6 February 2022). "Pakistan to boost air strike power with 50 enhanced fighter jets". Nikkei. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  235. Gady, Franz-Stefan (8 February 2017). "Pakistan to Order 50 More Fighter Jets in 2017". The Diplomat. Archived from the original on 11 April 2017. Retrieved 30 April 2017.
  236. "First JF-17 Block III Serial Production Fighters Unveiled: Pakistan's New Generation". Military Watch Magazine. 5 January 2022. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  237. "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 8 December 2020. Retrieved 10 February 2021.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  238. "Janes | Latest defence and security news". Janes.com. Archived from the original on 6 September 2020. Retrieved 27 October 2020.
  239. Waldron, Greg (21 May 2021). "Nigeria inducts JF-17s as it awaits Super Tucanos". Flight Global. Archived from the original on 21 May 2021. Retrieved 21 May 2021.
  240. Waldron, Greg (13 November 2020). "Nigeria gears up to receive JF-17s". Flight Global. Archived from the original on 21 January 2021. Retrieved 17 January 2021.
  241. "Nigeria inducts JF-17 fighters". Janes.com. Archived from the original on 21 May 2021. Retrieved 21 May 2021.
  242. "Six PAF squadrons with over 100 JF 17 fighter Jets become operational fully". Times of Islamabad. 3 February 2018. Archived from the original on 12 June 2018. Retrieved 3 February 2018.
  243. Roblin, Sebastien (2 January 2020). "The JF-17 Is No F-35 Stealth Jet, But It's Good Enough For Pakistan". The National Interest. Archived from the original on 30 October 2021. Retrieved 7 January 2020.
  244. "Pakistan's PAF Re-equip Squadron No 2 Minhas With JF-17". Asian Defence. 1 September 2015. Archived from the original on 21 November 2015.
  245. Warnes, Alan (July 2011). "JF-17 – Thunder from the East". Air Forces Monthly (#280): 47–70.
  246. "PAF No.14 'Tail choppers' Squadron re-equipped with JF-17 Thunder jets". DAWN.COM. 16 February 2017. Archived from the original on 5 June 2020. Retrieved 10 July 2019.
  247. Herk, Hans van. "Pakistan inducts 14 JF-17Bs and starts Block III JF-17 Thunder production". www.scramble.nl. Archived from the original on 31 December 2020. Retrieved 17 January 2021.
  248. "Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Delivers New JF-17B Batch". 2 January 2021. Archived from the original on 19 January 2021. Retrieved 17 January 2021.
  249. "JF-17 Thunder aircraft inducted in PAF Combat Commanders' School". Business Recorder. 26 January 2015. Archived from the original on 23 December 2015.
  250. "Peshawar Base to station JF-17 Thunder Aircraft Squadron: Pak Air Chief". Asian Tribune. 18 April 2009. Archived from the original on 14 May 2013.
  251. "Pakistan inaugurates new fighter squadron – No. 28 "Phoenix"". 28 February 2018. Archived from the original on 23 January 2021. Retrieved 27 March 2021.
  252. "PAF raises new multirole squadron equipped with JF-17 Thunder aircraft". www.thenews.com.pk. Archived from the original on 9 November 2020. Retrieved 27 March 2021.
  253. Waldron2011-11-15T12:02:00+00:00, Greg. "DUBAI: JF-17 crashes in Pakistan's Kamra". Flight Global. Archived from the original on 8 March 2021. Retrieved 15 September 2020.
  254. "PAF pilot dies as a plane crashed in Attock | Pakistan | News | Newspaper | Daily | English | Online". 16 December 2011. Archived from the original on 16 December 2011. Retrieved 16 September 2020.
  255. "Military Flair Up Between India and Pakistan See Both Sides Blaming One Another". Paktribune. Archived from the original on 9 July 2021. Retrieved 16 September 2020.
  256. Pti (14 November 2011). "Pakistan Air Force | Jet Crashes | Pilot | Punjab". oneindia.com. Archived from the original on 9 July 2021. Retrieved 16 September 2020.
  257. "Bogey: JF-17 'Thunder' crash jolts plans to sell aircraft". The Express Tribune. 15 November 2011. Archived from the original on 5 July 2021. Retrieved 18 September 2020.
  258. "JF-17 crashes into Arabian Sea". The Nation. 2 October 2016. Archived from the original on 8 November 2020. Retrieved 15 September 2020.
  259. "Martin-Baker Tweet". Twitter. Archived from the original on 15 September 2020. Retrieved 15 September 2020.
  260. Siddiqui, Naveed (15 September 2020). "PAF aircraft crashes in Attock during routine training, pilot ejects safely". DAWN.COM. Archived from the original on 16 September 2020. Retrieved 15 September 2020.
  261. "Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Jet Crashes, Pilot Ejects". defenseworld.net. Archived from the original on 17 September 2020. Retrieved 15 September 2020.
  262. Siddiqui, Naveed (6 August 2021). "PAF jet crashes during routine training mission near Attock". DAWN.COM. Archived from the original on 9 August 2021. Retrieved 9 August 2021.
  263. Martin-Baker (9 August 2021). "A Pakistan Air Force JF-17B aircraft crashed late last week on a training mission near Attock. Both aircrew ejected successfully from the twin seat aircraft using PK16LE Ejection Seats". Twitter. Archived from the original on 11 August 2021. Retrieved 11 August 2021.
  264. "News & Events". Martin-Baker. Archived from the original on 15 August 2021. Retrieved 15 August 2021.
  265. Khan, Bilal (31 August 2017). "PROFILE: AVIC-PAC JF-17 THUNDER". quwa.org. Archived from the original on 20 September 2017. Retrieved 20 September 2017.
  266. "Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra - JF-17 Thunder Aircraft". Archived from the original on 4 April 2022. Retrieved 7 January 2020.
  267. "JF-17 Thunder / FC-1 Xiaolong Multirole Combat Aircraft, Pakistan". airforce-technology.com. Archived from the original on 29 September 2017. Retrieved 23 September 2017.
  268. "FC-1 / JF-17 Thunder". www.globalsecurity.org. Archived from the original on 16 July 2020. Retrieved 16 June 2020.
  269. "Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra - JF-17 Thunder Aircraft". Archived from the original on 12 July 2020. Retrieved 7 January 2020.
  270. "JF-17 Thunder / FC-1 Xiaolong Multirole Combat Aircraft". www.airforce-technology.com. Retrieved 13 December 2021.
  271. "Military Watch Magazine". militarywatchmagazine.com. Archived from the original on 27 April 2021. Retrieved 29 April 2021.
  272. "Forecasting Thunder: An overview of the JF-17 Block III".
  273. Warnes, Alan (13 February 2017). "Chinese-Pakistani JF-17 Thunder Fighter Will Fly In 2017". Aviation Week & Space Technology. Archived from the original on 24 September 2017. Retrieved 24 September 2017.
  274. "The National Interest: Blog".
  275. "The JF-17's air-launched rocket (CM-400AKG)". 3 October 2019.
  276. "CM-400AKG a New export variant of an anti-ship missile from China (Russian Media)". www.airrecognition.com.
  277. Mader, Georg (February 2014). "INTERVIEW: Thunder over the Desert". AirForces Monthly (311): 62–66.
  278. Khan, Bilal (12 March 2017). "PAKISTAN INTEGRATES JF-17 WITH STAND-OFF RANGE WEAPON (GIDS REK)". quwa.org. Archived from the original on 11 September 2017. Retrieved 25 September 2017.
  279. Mader, Georg. "Pakistan Air Force discusses the JF-17 Thunder". internationalfighter.iqpc.co.uk. Archived from the original on 30 October 2021. Retrieved 26 September 2017.
  280. "Pakistan Turki Dosti Zindebat! [Long Live Turkey – Pakistan Friendship!]". monch.com.tr. Archived from the original on 25 September 2017. Retrieved 25 September 2017.

Bibliography

  • Medeiros, Evan S., Roger Cliff, Keith Crane and James C. Mulvenon. A New Direction for China's Defense Industry. Rand Corporation, 2005. ISBN 0-8330-4079-0.
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.