Low in cost and small in size JF-17 is an advanced, multipurpose light fighter plane, which is suitable for modern warfare and the demand of military fighters and appropriate to meet the needs of overseas customers.
China and Pakistan have poured in excess of 500 million dollars into the development of the FC-1, which is being built by the Chengdu Aircraft Group Corp, in cooperation with China Aero Technology Import and Export Co
The FC-1 has a maximum range of 3,000 km (1,900 miles) and a maximum weapons payload of 3,600 kg (7,940 lb). In its test flights JF-17 has proven to have the combat capability rivalled that of the Lockheed Martin Corp F-16. The price, however, was half that of the F-16.
The JF-17 was planned to be the replacement of ageing fleet of the PAF. JF-17 is a lightweight, all weather, multi-role aircraft, which can fly at the speed of Mach 1.6 and has high thrust to weight ratio."
Aircraft would be able to engage targets at all speeds and altitudes within the conventional flying envelope. In surface attack and interdiction role the aircraft will be capable of striking at long distances. Among the existing PAF aircraft this performance is matched by the F-16s only. It is equipped with an advanced control system, which is a mix of conventional and fly-by-wire controls making it highly agile and manoeuvrable.
The aircraft would be capable of carrying short range, beyond visual range, anti-ship as well as radiation missiles. Additionally, the carriage of high and low drag bombs, laser guided bombs, runway penetration bombs and cluster bombs would be catered for. These weapons would be carried in various combinations as dictated by mission requirement.
JF-17 would be equipped with state-of-the-art avionics package to provide an all-weather navigation and attack capability. It will provide a high degree of survivability through automated system of threat detection, analysis and counter-threat measures. The avionics would also enable effective management of weapons and firepower]