Mirage-V are under the command of PAF not under PN, and for me its an interesting move because we know that its
PAF which maintain the 'supportive infrastructure' for JF-17 so JF-17 under PAF command for naval role make more sense as per the existing arrangements and past experience & we also know that JF-17 jets was intended to replace Mirage jets under PAF
'If' PN is acquiring these jets separately from PAF, then it indicates
- Additional order of JF-17 (150-250 for PAF & ~ 50 for PN)
- Timeframe of JF-17 induction in PN would be b/w 2015-2020.
- The 'Independent Aerial Defense' for PN will require separate supportive infrastructure in 'SOUTH' as currently all PAF supportive & maintenance infrastructure of JF-17 is at the 'NORTH' of the country (though at initial stages PAF infracture could be utilized)
- Decrease of maritime defense responsibilities of PAF, but then what would be the 'new role' of PAF in maritime defense.
- Which further means the early retirement of the Mirage-V jets
- I believe maritime squadron of Mirages Jets are ROSE upgraded, so would PAF use these Mirage Jets for other than a maritime role or not.