Is it close to 5 years now and the jf17 is barely scraping the ground strike capabilities---its full ground strike capabilities will be out in another 3---5 years---now let alone the bvr----. You have to write the game plan---you have to write the 'playbook'---operational manual---.
As for missing the boat---this organization aka PAF was ill prepared to make any procurement in case sanctions were lifted.
9/11 was the moment----till 2005---. PAF put too much emphasis on the joint venture of jf17 and fc20----putting up chicken hawks to fight the eagles---. It does not work when the eagles out number you as well.
I agree with your last part. The J-11's and to bring the enemy to the negotiation table. The rest, I don't agree with. The JFT's taking too long not because of the 'lengthy time' it takes to operationalize the equipment. It is because the program was stopped and started many times due to financials, engine issues with the Russians, issues in setting up manufacturing in Pakistan, etc, etc. The demand and supply and then integration wasn't synching up and rightfully so. Everything was happening for the first time and the engines are still a dependency on Russia!
Also, with the IMF knocking on your door and international community trying to declare Pakistan as a 'rogue state', add a dictator running the country into the equation and it becomes even more darker. I can't imagine how you can really write a 'play book' and call the 'plays'... In this scenario, you are too busy surviving. Plus, the west wasn't happy with Pakistan so no one would offer advance weapons even after Pakistan helping NATO. Last and one of the most critical ones...$$...combine all the previous items I listed and you can see what was going on. Defense articles from the West isn't like buying chocolates. It's a MUCH more difficult process, especially if a country with the reputation of Pakistan is requesting it. Not trying to bash Pakistan, just stating the reality unfortunately.