The two aren't mutually exclusive. For example, the PAF could be seeking to make a heavier investment in developing and producing radars, ECM/EW, seekers, etc - i.e. areas that are the most sensitive and difficult to procure.
This is what Israel does; it develops its own radar and ECM/EW tech, but then integrates its domestically developed solutions unto foreign platforms such as the F-16, F-15, and now F-35. Alternatively, ACM Sohail Aman also said "looking beyond 5th-generation", suggesting that the next big platform wouldn't be along the same lines as the FC-31 or TFX, but beyond that.
Sir,
What little I understood from ACM Sohail Aman's interview and the questions on 14th Aug, is Pakistan Air Force intends to develop R&D locally utilizing the brains that are now heading West. It also gave me an impression that what PAC achieved over the years in various projects needs to be consolidated and knowledge imparted to the future generations. This knowledge might not be available to future Pakistani's because of stricter controls that Western countries might implement in the future.
ECM/EW, seekers etc is indeed a field that Pakistan is looking for locally and over the years various options have surfaced. UAE was unable to export Pakistan the ECM/EW systems they produce in collaboration with western countries. The French refused initially but now are in talks with a very basic system hence Russian systems are being looked at. China may be willing to export some systems but they might not be ideally suited for Pakistan considering the Rafale deal.
Beyond fifth gen. indicates to me that PAF is looking for independence in the field Artificial Intelligence indicating that in the near future Pakistan might be heading in the direction of producing a super computer. Again this would help the future generation in accessing complicated issues far more accurately.
PAF might also be considering an other PAC type facility based in Sindh or Baluchistan. TAI is a strong contender for a joint venture in this regards as it does offer many solutions that Pakistan requires now and in the future.
Over the years a lot has been said in regards to Future 5th Generation options of Pakistan, how and what might mature is yet some good 5-7 years away.
IMO the issue that PAF faces today is if J-31 is selected and China does not induct these aircraft in her fleet Pakistan would be in a similar situation that is with JF-17's. If China some how allows Pakistan to procure J-20 then things might be different however PAF is not considering this at present. This leaves Pakistan with limited options i.e F-35 and TFX.
F-35's cost approximately 190-220 million today in 5-7 years though more orders would be given still the price would not come down due to inflation and salary increases. PAF would not give a large order hence possibility of local production can not be possible.
Now the only viable option that PAF has is the TFX, Turkey has to replace F-16's hence 200 initial and 100 optional is very much on the cards. The F-35's that Turkey has ordered will replace the F-4's so it is very clear that the TFX order might be increased. The requirement of PAF would be around 200 5th Generation aircraft provided PAF has 300-400
4-4.5++ fighters, which is what has been said in the interview. The interview also indicates that UAV's and UCAV's would also be part of PAF increasing PAF overall aircraft strength to 600. This would be enough for keeping enemies at bay.
