in that case we will need approx 370 aircrafts
150jf-17s+80f-16s(if we get few old ones)+50 odd j-10s(may be only 36 or more than 50)+50 f-7PGs
Remember the Mirage ROSEs. Some of them are upgraded to carry Ra'ad. If the entire fleet of Mirage is retired, those capable of carrying ALCMs would still be in service till the JF-17 order is complete.
even this put us short of the target so their are two possibies
increase in j-10 order
or get more older f-16s
or may be its just rumor we may see further orders on jf-17
PAF might for for more F-16s but a very unwise move if they do. F-16s are legendary fighters but once the US stops the spare parts, all of them would be grounded and be useless scrap which would cost Billions.
in long run i think around 2025 f-7PGs may be replaced by fifth gen aircraft..i am sure PAF will be planning something on paper atleast
The planning on paper is complete. Now time for funds and development which will take years now.
Separate naval air arm is unlikely since pervaiz shamim sahib once said that a limited number of JFTs would be having antiship capabilities.
Well before the PNS Mehran attack, we had a hot thread about PAF trying to go for J-15 for it's navy as separate Naval Air Support. But Thunders placed at nearest Air Base to sea (except for Karachi) can be fitted perfectly if what you are saying is true.
i.e. IAF may allocate 300 out of its 700 units for western borders but not 1000 Units. This, IMHO provides room for comfort for PAF to maintain its current inventory.
Pakistan mustn't take India as it's sole enemy! We still have got Afghanistan and Iran sharing our borders and we mustn't neglect the Western side. Pakistan must make it's Air Force capable to defend the nation. We must not forget our resources are limited and in a state of war the resources would seriously be effected. The only way to survive a war is if China AND Middle East help us financially and in ammunition.. Mustn't count on that. Hence the present resources must be used very wisely and most efficiently. Not forgetting we have a hungry nation behind and the political bastards are stripping the poor out of their skins too. If they are taken care of, PAF and PM could have possibly widened their resources.