Question
The 2 seater variant's airframe and avionics will depend on Block 1 or Block 2?
To introduce the FC-1 Xiaolong multirole fighter, also known as the JF-17 Thunder, to the overseas market, China and Pakistan are going to display a two-seater version of the aircraft during the Paris Air Show held from June 15-21 this year, reports the Moscow-based Military Parade.
Known as the FC-1B or JF-17B, this two-seater fighter is likely to be equipped with the French-built M88-2 engine. It is currently equipped with the Rafale twin-engine fighter designed by Dassault for the French Air Force.
With this new engine, the range of the Xiaolong can be extended from 800 kilometers to 1,000 kilometers, according to the report. A refueling probe will be installed on the FC-1B or JF-17B as well for aerial refueling according to an unofficial source.
Other defense analysts have queried whether the M88-2 can be fitted to a two-seater Xiaolong.
Pakistan and China develop two-seat Xiaolong fighter|WantChinaTimes.com
The two seater model of the JF-17 Thunder was carrying 2x P
L-12/SD-10 Beyond visual range active radar-guided air-to-air missile (BVRAAM), 2x PL-5 E II Within Visual Range Air to Air Missiles (WVRAAM) for self defence purposes and two air to surface/anti-ship missiles for ground/maritime attack role.