The JF-17 Thunder light combat aircraft is a joint development of China and Pakistan. It is equipped with an improved radar, enhanced electronic warfare capability, as well as improved avionics integration. The JF-17 Thunder should also become an exportable platform. Unlike the previous variants, the JF-17 Block III will be more competitive against the British F-35B fighter. The aircraft will be equipped with a holographic Head Up Display, (HUD), and AESA radar for enhanced situational awareness.
The JF-17 is a joint venture between the Chinese Aviation Industry Group (AVIC) and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC). Pakistan Aeronautical Complex has 58% of this work share. The JF-17 is also considered to be a low cost fighter aircraft. China has made significant progresses in aircraft design. The JF-17 is likely to be a highly advanced combat plane. China and Pakistan want to attract new customers.
The first prototype of the JF-17 was designed in 2002. The aircraft's airframe is made from both titanium alloys as well as aluminium alloys. It has a semi-monocoque design. The JF-17 comes with eight hardpoints. It can lift up to 3,400kg (7.495 lbs). It has a service ceiling of 55,500 feet. It has an airspeed of 1.6 Mach. It can be equipped with air-to-air missiles. It can also carry glide missiles.
The JF-17 Block III features a new infrared track and search system. It also has a digital flyby-wire flight controller system. The new radar and avionics systems are expected to enhance the aircraft's ability to conduct offensive electronic warfare. The Block-III also features a new supersonic anti-ship missile, which is believed to be more powerful than the JF-17's previous anti-ship missiles.
The JF-17 has a radar warning system to detect rocket missiles approaching it. The aircraft has a data link, which allows data to be exchanged with other combat aircraft, ground control centres, and airborne earlier warning and control planes. The pilot can also enhance his situational awareness by receiving information through a helmet-mounted display. The pilot is also equipped with a Martin-Baker PK16LE ejection seat.
The JF-17 is an aircraft of small dimensions that has eight hardpoints. These can be used to store weapons. The aircraft can carry upto 3,400 kilograms of weapons (including air-to-air and missiles). It also features a MIL-STD-1760 databus for compatibility with Western weapons. A self-protection radar jamming device is available on the JF-17. You can also equip the aircraft with a targeting pod, which can help identify and guide laser-guided weapon targets. The JF-17 has an operating range of 20 km. The maximum take-off weight is 13,500 kilograms.
Although the JF-17 Block III will be the most expensive JF-17 variant, it is also the most advanced. The aircraft will be able to carry additional weapons and be equipped with an AESA radio to enhance situational recognition.