For it to be worth it, it needs to optimize the design for the new more powerful WS-19 engine; 110-120 kn max thrust. Optimize in such a way that the rear of the plane’s design maximizes the use of the thrust and doesn’t hinder air flow, leading to Supercruise capability, or generally maximum effective thrust at what ever thrust level.
Therefore, I think it will be an “evolutionary” design. In the way the Gripen NG is an evolution of the Gripen C, and the Super Hornet is an evolution of the Hornet, a JF-17E/F
Super Thunder could be a Lower-RCS version of the JF-17 design with recessed weapons stations not internal bays like the 4.5 gen KF-21. Probably also with the landing gear further out as on the Gripen NG. The only way it could be considered a stop gap is that the Air Force needs ever improving capabilities and the J-31 and KAAN aren’t ready yet, and there is also the need to keep Kamra open, so basically a Block 4 design by another name.
Hopefully a design some what similar to the fan-art designs we saw all those years ago “JF-20”
The key is keep costs down, to around $25 million an air frame, so it fills the bill requirement of many air forces, especially as a loyal wingman in an unmanned version. The Gripen NG is done in by its $85 million price tag.
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