We were discussing a heavy long range fighter. The F-16 doesn't genuinely fulfil the requirement of a heavy long range fighter. It would be what you rightly say, a defensive fighter in nature for the PAF. The Su-35 is what we classify as a world class long range fighter being offered by the Russians. Not so long ago, we couldn't comprehend such an acquisition. Today, such a possibility is within our grasp and we need to take it firmly with both hands.
Bro, I'm well aware of the challenges of inducting a new platform. I have already mentioned that in my previous post. Whatever the challenges and cost scenarios, we cannot ignore the threat perception across the border. We may not have similar resources as our adversary, but we can (as we always have) combine quality with a certain amount of quantity. Quality dictates that we require a long range fighter which can challenge and match the acquisitions of our foe. Realistically, the F-16 is a limited platform as far as offensive capabilities are concerned. Especially range is a concern. As our naval ambitions grow, we also need to address this requirement. The Su-35, be it in smaller numbers, certainly fits the bill. As for challenges, everything is going to have a cost including the latest F-16s that we so desperately seek. Neither should it be surprising that the new F-16s would similarly require a revised infrastructure setup, training etc. It is not like we would be able to induct the new F-16s right away off the shelf.
Every acquisition has its pros and cons. Surely, the availability and timely delivery of spares has always been an issue with the Russians. However, who can claim with certainty that the Americans would be a reliable supplier for spares during wartime? Let's face it, the F-16 is like a beautiful golden dagger (sone ki churi pet me maarna). It is irresistible because it is worth every bang for buck. Yet, it is highly sanction prone for Pakistan. Not to mention the extremely ludicrous and stringent usage conditions.
The good news is that the Chinese are also acquiring the Su-35 platform. Pakistan could easily work out some sort of deal or venture to produce spares in collaboration with our ally. Pakistan could also directly request for some sort of ToT with respect to the spares. Everthing is possible with the flexible Russians as opposed to the difficult Americans. In other words, the poor availability of Russian spares can be addressed in numerous ways as long we have the desire and will to go forward.
When I say that the latest JF-17 Block is in the same category as the F-16, I do this on the basis of a crude and general comparison. In a general sense, both are 4th gen platforms with a similar technological base. When we acquire the F-16 we won't get any quantum leap improvement as opposed to a 5th gen platform for instance. Additionally, as you have stated, an AESA radar is on the cards for the JF-17. Just because we don't have it yet doesn't mean we won't get it. In fact, the JV with China is a guarantee that we will acquire a much improved JF-17 in the near future. It is only a matter of time. Therefore, this point is not a matter of discussion to me personally.