What writers and commentators always ignore is the "role" any fighter jet would be deployed. The deployment as a "strike fighter" or an "interceptor" has a major bearing on how a jet performs. Add to this: pilot skills, jamming capabilities and support from other aircrafts.
JF-17 will never be...
I think JF-17 (even B-III) should be taken and kept in the context.
It is not a deep strike fighter - Rafael is.
The shortcomings, that you have highlighted, can be overcome by network centric system.
Indian satellites: China has the capability to strike them
Bombers from 60s: US B-52 are 50s and still very effective and in use.
Wake India from slumber: only to find that China has gobbled a large chunk, and is about take away more.
You have hit the nail on its head.
Just to add, when the deal was announced (and initially for much larger numbers, 136 jets in total) PAF was close to sign a $2.3-Billion deal for its JF-17.
French played cleverly at that time and cornered India, by dangling this deal in front of them.
If PAF...
1). Most recently it was Bangladesh PM, who responded to IK. There is a long list prior to that.
2). History has already made a clear judgement, Modi is nowhere close to IK charismatic personality. Since IK's arrival, Pakistan has risen and Since Modi's arrival India has gone down.
3). Nobody...