PAF requires their every fighter to be multi-role and its air superiority capabilities should include both WVR and BVR capabilities that is why PAF loves Typhoon. J-16D is an electronic warfare variant of J-16. Operating one 5th generation fighter platform is equal to operating almost two 4/4++ generation platform since stealth fighter have expensive maintenance cost. So right now PAF is operating 4 platforms and two of them will be retired and one new platform would arrive which is known as J-31, now there is a place for one other platform which would be 4++ generation fighter. As a
strike fighter can you compare Su-35, J-16 and JH-7B ? In my opinion the air superiority capabilities of J-16 and Su-35 are far beyond of JH-7B as JH-7B can only be used for BVR combat. As far as dealing with enemy's SAM batteries is concern that would be the job of J-31.
@The Eagle @Quwa