JF-17 - Updates, News & Discussion

[Qaraca]

I dont really understand the silence at PAC Kamra. The fact that we had to ship existing PAF jets to is not a good sign in terms of production. Why is it so hard to keep a line running?

Which existing PAF jets? JF-17B variant could be if the 20-xxx stands for production year (2020), but can’t state definitely without knowing if it follows the same formula as PAF. And if it does, then the Block 3 ones are produced in 2024, correct me if wrong but newest PAF Block 3s are from 2023.

 

[Pakistani Dragon]

I dont really understand the silence at PAC Kamra. The fact that we had to ship existing PAF jets to is not a good sign in terms of production. Why is it so hard to keep a line running?

There's no indication that the PAF intended to build any additional JF-17 Block-2B ("Bravo") aircraft beyond the 26 that were produced for PAF and 1 or 2 for MAF.

If I'm not mistaken, those aircraft were primarily built with export customers in mind, while the PAF itself appeared satisfied with relying on its advanced simulator training capability rather than expanding the fleet.

So it wouldn't surprise me if the PAF were willing to sell them to an export customer if the opportunity arose.

 

[Pakistan First]

@Qaraca

You mentioned in one of your posts (which is deleted now) that why Azerbaijan selected JF-17 when J-10C existed. I threw same question to the AI. I think it gave the reasonable response that's why i am sharing it. Also to add to whatever AI says below, I want to say that nobody buys a weapon system only for political reasons. They test it thoroughly and check its capabilities before buying it. When military and political objectives meet only then you buy a specific platform.

Here's AI response:

Azerbaijan selected the JF-17 Block III over the J-10C primarily due to its lower operational costs, co-production pathways with Pakistan, and easier integration without political baggage. The JF-17C provides a highly cost-effective, multirole capability for replacing aging Soviet-era aircraft like the MiG-29.

The key factors driving this decision include:

• • Cost-Effectiveness: The JF-17 Block III is a lighter, single-engine multirole fighter that is significantly cheaper to procure and maintain than the heavier J-10C. This affordability allows Azerbaijan to procure a larger fleet—a deal for 40 aircraft was signed.
  • Industrial Partnership & Technology Transfer: The JF-17 is co-developed by Pakistan and China. By acquiring it, Azerbaijan deepens its crucial strategic, military, and industrial relationship with Pakistan.
  • State-of-the-Art Weaponry: Despite being less expensive, the JF-17 Block III features "J-20 DNA". It is equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and can fire the highly advanced Chinese PL-15 and PL-10 air-to-air missiles. This gives Azerbaijan a major technological advantage in its region without needing the heavier, more expensive J-10C airframe.

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