The only problem is that PAF can buy 12 Mirage 2000-5 for the price of 2 SU-35 or 1 EFT!!!
And let's say a Squadron of 2000-9 for about 400 million which is the price of 4 SU-35..
Of course these deals will help in acquiring some SU-35s when they become available - not before 2022/24 -
EFT or Rafale will depend on how the economy will perform after CPEC is completed..
36 FC-20 for 1.4 billion USD makes 38 million USD a piece.
Considering 400 Million for 18 Mirage2K, makes 22 million USD a piece. Correct me if im wrong as im not good with million and billion figures.
FC-20 price can be justified. Both are delta and assuming that simulators and other facilities will cost the same for both aircraft, Mirage2K downsides are as follows:
1.Cost will go up because its engine overhaul and air frame upgrade will come quicker, as its lived half its life.This also means it will be retired early.
2. Its owned by the IAF already who knows its strengths and weaknesses, where as J-10 capabilities can be speculated only by IAF, so it can pull up surprises in combat.
3. AESA has more probability in FC-20 than Mirage2K.
4. 9 hard points compared to 11 of FC-20.
5. On supposition that more than 12 M2K will be required, PAF will need to wait for other AirForces to retire their M2K, whereas in FC-20 case, PAF can order spare aircrafts with initial order.
6. Newer generation weapons like PL-10 can be integrated easily on FC-20 while MBDA Meteor for Mirage2K is not probable.
7. If larger numbers of Mirage2K are procured, PAF will face same problem someday in future to replace M2k's like the one its facing now to replace Mirage III and Mirage V, whereas FC-20 will be replaced much later than Mirage2K if its procured as its newer and will have more life of air frame and engine
Upside of M2K:
1. Acquisition Cost obviously
2. Weapons package will introduce MICA/APACHE etc.