This light combat plane, known as JF-17 Thunder in China and Pakistan, was created in collaboration. It features a new radar, improved electronic warfare capability and better avionics compatibility. The JF-17 Thunder is also expected to become a viable export platform. The JF-17 Block III fighter will be less competitive than its predecessors. This aircraft will have a holographic head up display (HUD) as well as AESA radar, which will provide enhanced situational alert.
Joint venture between the Chinese Aviation Industry Group AVIC and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex PAC is the JF-17. 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 a lot of advances in aircraft design and development, and the JF-17 is expected to become a highly advanced combat aircraft. China and Pakistan want to attract new customers.
In 2002, the JF-17 first prototype was created. This aircraft has an airframe constructed from titanium alloys and aluminium alloys. It has a semi-monocoque design. The JF-17 can transport up to 3,400kg (7,495 lbs) and has eight hardpoints. It can travel up to 55,500 feet. It can fly at a speed of 1.6 Mach. You can equip the aircraft with air-to–air missiles. It can also carry glide bombs.
The JF-17 Block III has a new infrared search and track system. It also includes a digital fly-by-wire flight control system. The aircraft's ability for offensive electronic warfare is expected to be improved by the addition of the radar and avionics. Block-III's new supersonic Anti-ship Missile is more powerful than those used by the JF-17.
The JF-17's radar warning system can detect rocket missiles as they approach the aircraft. A data link allows for data exchange with ground control centers, combat aircraft, and airborne early warning or control aircraft. The helmet-mounted display allows the pilot to increase his situational awareness and receive information. Martin-Baker PK16LE ejection seating is available for the pilot.
The JF-17 is a comparatively small aircraft that features eight hardpoints, which are used to store weapons. The aircraft can hold up to 3,400 kg of weapons, including airto-air missiles. It also includes a MIL-STD-1760 databasebus to allow compatibility with Western weaponry. The JF-17 is also equipped with a self-protection radar jamming pod. The aircraft can also have a targeting pod which can identify air targets, and provide guidance to laser guided weapons. The JF-17 has an operating range of 20 km. It also has an maximum take-off weight limit of 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 could carry more weapons and it would be equipped to detect AESA radars to improve situational awareness.