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- Mar 1, 2015
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PAF Explores Potential Acquisition and Local Production of Chinese FC-31 Stealth Fighter
- Thread starterAbid Khan
- Start dateSaturday at 10:14 AM
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The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is in discussions with the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the Chinese developer of the FC-31 stealth fighter jet, regarding the potential acquisition and local production of the aircraft. This move signals a significant advancement for the PAF's capabilities and marks a potential shift in its fleet composition.
The FC-31, a fifth-generation, twin-engine fighter, possesses advanced stealth capabilities that would represent a major upgrade from the PAF's current aircraft. It is designed for a variety of air combat roles, including air superiority and ground attack missions. The potential local production of the FC-31 in Pakistan could bolster the country's aerospace industry and reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers.
The acquisition of the FC-31 could also influence the future of the JF-17 program, a joint venture between Pakistan and China. With the JF-17 production line expected to be retired by 2030, the FC-31 could emerge as a successor, potentially equipped with the Chinese-made WS-13 engine.
Although previously rejected for the JF-17 due to performance concerns, the WS-13 engine could see renewed interest as a powerplant for both the FC-31 and future JF-17 variants.
Standardizing the engine across multiple aircraft platforms would offer logistical and maintenance advantages for the PAF. However, the success of these engine negotiations remains to be seen, and could significantly impact the future direction of the PAF's fighter fleet.
While discussions are ongoing, a final agreement on the FC-31 acquisition and local production has not yet been reached. The successful implementation of this deal would mark a significant milestone in Pakistan's defence capabilities and could have wider implications for India.
Can J31 be effective stealth air superiority fighter without sidebays and limited internal payload option?