"Yet, when even the most ardent followers of the program had thought that the JF-17 had fully evolved, it has once again surprised all of us in its next evolution. It is likely that this evolution is going to take shape after the second batch. Changes are comprehensive and across the board and include
greater range,
lower RCS,
AESA radar and a
new engine with
greater TWR (thrust to weight ratio).
The lower RCS is to be reached using
new materials, including advanced composites. A new
RAM paint is also rumored that is said to be similar to that being used on the F-35. The nose will see
comprehensive redesign and is rumored to
incorporate a new AESA radar set of Chinese origin. One proposition is that the
single tail is replaced with twin-tails similar to the F-35. A
new DSI is also projected that will further lower RCS.
The stealthier JF-17 will incorporate a
larger wing, improving higher altitude maneuverability. This is a crucial aspect that is increasingly becoming important in BVR combat, where the higher and faster jets can in some form take pot shots at slower and lower BVR platforms. Another aspect of the larger wing will be
increased internal fuel carrying capacity. This is addresses one of the areas that the JF-17 is weaker in - range and the ability to stay on station longer.
The nose, vital areas of the cockpit as well as a whole host of other technical areas will be addressed.
the nose will in fact be fully redesigned around a new AESA radar and be formated to lower RCS. The DSI design is also being redesigned to better accommodate and optimize higher altitudes and higher speeds. A
second generation of the onboard information collection, dissemination and display will be incorporated."
The article left me salivating. Please let it be true.
