Bratva
PDF THINK TANK: ANALYST
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There could be 2 JF-17 standards - one the present gap-filler and the other, Gripen NG'ed. PAF need to replace oldies now. NG version can come with natural evolution of technology in time. NG version can satisfy the need for a proper 4.5+ but Blk. 2 class is also useful.
We don't have a luxury of buying High-tech aircraft along with JF-17 like what your IAF is been doing. Upgrading to 4.5 Gen standard and Buying new aircraft along with LCA
The need of hour is to evolve JF-17 as per evolving threat matrix not the natural evolution.
Sir, PAF knows that now with the modernization program the replacement of 250+ F-7 and Mirage aircraft can be done by half the number of JF-17's (175-180).
On the other hand PAF is also looking to purchase more F-16's which would also fill the gap quite rapidly. So one can think that It would be a mix of 50-70 more F-16's bringing the number Of PAF F-16 's about 120-150.
If the latest news regarding joining the TFX program became a reality then PAF may not even go for more F-16's.
The first 100 JF-17 out 170-180 can't be upgraded to Block-III or further standards. Your guess is as good as mine what would be their chance of survival against upgraded 4.5 GEN (MIG-29, Mirage 2000,SU-30 ) that IAF would field in 2020.