This light combat plane, known as JF-17 Thunder in China and Pakistan, was created in collaboration. It is equipped with an improved radar, enhanced electronic warfare capability, as well as improved avionics integration. The JF-17 Thunder is also expected to become a viable export platform. The JF-17 Block III, unlike the other variants, will be more competitive with the British F-35B fighter. The aircraft will be equipped with a holographic Head Up Display, (HUD), and AESA radar for enhanced situational awareness.
Joint venture between China Aviation Industry Group (AVIC), and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, the JF-17 is a joint venture. Pakistan Aeronautical Complex holds 58% of the work share. The JF-17 is also considered to be a low cost fighter aircraft. China has made many advances in aircraft design, and the JF-17 should be an advanced combat aircraft. China and Pakistan are also looking to develop new export customers.
2002 was the year that the JF-17 prototype was first designed. 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 can fly at a speed of 1.6 Mach. You can fit the aircraft with air to-air missiles. It can also carry 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 will be able to conduct offensive electronic warfare thanks to the new radar and avionics system. Block-III features a supersonic anti-ship weapon that is thought to be stronger than the JF-17's anti-ship missiles.
A radar warning system on the JF-17 detects rocket-launches and warns them. The aircraft features a data link to exchange data with other combat aircraft and ground control centers. Through a helmet-mounted display, the pilot can enhance his situational awareness. 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 store up to 3,400 kilograms, including air-toair 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. A targeting pod can be added to the aircraft that can detect air targets and provide guidance for laser-guided weapons. The JF-17 has a range of 20 kilometers. It also has an maximum take-off weight limit of 13,500 kilograms.
Although it will be the most costly JF-17 variant, the JF-17 Block III would be the most sophisticated. The aircraft could carry more weapons and it would be equipped to detect AESA radars to improve situational awareness.