JF-17 Block-III | Pakistan progressing well on the indigenization of its Air Force!
An unnamed BVRAAM has already been test fired by the PAF a few months ago.
September 27, 2019 Mark Frank Defense Updates 0
Defence Updates- Pakistan/ JF-17 Block-III
Thunder Block III has been developed with the latest version of F-16 V Fighter Jet in mind as a benchmark. The new variant of JF-17 is being fitted with an AESA radar, helmet-mounted display and sight system.
The JF-17 is a 4++ generation multirole fighter aircraft being made in Pakistan with technology acquired from Chengdu Aircraft Co., of China. JF-17 Block III aircraft will also feature a new electronic warfare system, upgraded avionics including a three-axis fly-by-wire digital flight control system, and a helmet-mounted display and sight system.
The latest variant is expected to be powered by a better engine, as compared to Klimov RD-93 turbofan engine which has been fitted in Block I & II of the aircraft. The JF-17 Block III has an approximate combat radius of up to 2000 kilometers without refueling and can reach a maximum speed of up to 2500 km/h (without dropping fuel tanks).
The Block III version, which has been in development for over 2 years now is characterized by an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, helmet-mounted targeting system (HMS), an advanced targeting pod, data links and beyond visual range weapons. With its new integrated frontal infra-red search and track sensor the aircraft will have the capability for quick information sharing and network-enabled operations that facilitate earlier detection and interception of enemy aircraft.
JF-17 Thunder of PAF
The HMS system will allow pilots to aim anything in his/her sight. Whereas, the AESA radar will augment the jet’s capability, enabling it to engage from a longer range and attack multiple targets. The aircraft can alternatively be armed with air-to-air, air-to-surface, and anti-ship missiles. It will also be able to fire beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAM). An unnamed BVRAAM has already been test fired by the PAF a few months ago.
The Block III version of the Thunder will allow information sharing between the fighter and other platforms. This will increase the efficacy of the entire combat system in defending against strong adversaries.
The production of the aircraft is already underway. The Block III is expected to carry a price tag less than half the price of the latest generation F-16 V fighter jet and features, manauveraility and speed similar to that of the US aircraft.