The JF-17 Thunder light combat aircraft is a joint development of China and Pakistan. 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. Unlike the previous variants, the JF-17 Block III will be more competitive against the British F-35B fighter. 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 accounts for 58%. The JF-17 has been described as a low cost fighter jet. China has made significant progresses in aircraft design. The JF-17 is likely to be a highly advanced combat plane. China and Pakistan are looking for new export customers.
2002 saw the first prototype of JF-17. This aircraft has an airframe constructed from titanium alloys and 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 can reach a maximum service ceiling of 55,000. It has an airspeed of 1.6 Mach. It can be equipped with air-to-air missiles. It can also be equipped with glide bombs.
The JF-17 Block III includes a new infrared tracking and search system. It also includes a digital flight-by-wire control system. The aircraft's capabilities to conduct offensive electronics warfare are expected to improve with the use of new radars and avionics. Block-III's new supersonic Anti-ship Missile is more powerful than those used by the JF-17.
The JF-17 also features a radar warning system that detects rocket missiles approaching the aircraft. The aircraft features a data link to exchange data with other combat aircraft and ground control centers. A helmet-mounted display can provide information to the pilot that will help him improve his situational alertness. Martin-Baker PK16LE ejection seats are also 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. The aircraft also has a MIL-STD-1760 Databus that allows for compatibility with Western weapons. The JF-17 also has a self-protection radar blocking pod. An optional targeting pod can also be installed on the aircraft to identify air targets and provide direction for laser guided weapons. The JF-17 can travel 20 km. It can also take off at a maximum weight of 13,500 kg.
Although it will be the most costly JF-17 variant, the JF-17 Block III would be the most sophisticated. It would be able carry more weapons and would have an AESA radar for enhanced situational recognition.