rockstarIN
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Need stealth and slightly longer range? You might be able to hit 2 birds with 1 stone with the under development j31. The question is how much range does it have and development time. If you can get a stealth with greater range than the f16 then it should be pursued. Instead of having 2sq of say su35 and 2sq of 5th gen why dont have 4sq of 5th gen with a common rd93?
In the future it will not only be a battle of fighters with longer loiter time but the generation gap caused by introduction of 5th gen in south east asia will be be a morale booster over the enemy. Does paf have the money to operate 4 different type of platforms? Jft, f16s, double engine, fifth gen?
I think paf should ditch a 4+ gen double engine fighter in favour of fifth gen fighter with longer range than the f16. If this target cant be met in the next decade, then we will be in a doldrum and will have to look for alternatives.
In that case it will be toss between typoon [saudia operates it] and su series [china operates it]. What would be ideal if fifth gen doesnt get inducted in the next decade would be a fighter which is operated by friendly countries from where we can get spares/training
Waiting for J-31 is kind of taking too much risk for PAF.
It is a 5th gen plane, except F-22, nothing really came out. What if that one does not fit the requirements of Pakistan? You will lose valuable 7-8 years to buy and add jets. IAF can afford it in case of Pak sector scenerio, waiting for MMRCA etc. It is not wise to wait for a plane which is 8-10 years away.
The best possible option is F-16 only, provided IAF numerical advantage as well as SAM cover. And if you have no plans to go against any American Carrier in the future..!!
If you really want twin engines jets, the PAF doctrine should change from defensive set up and at least need 5-6 twin engine fighters sqn to have an effect in the war. Provided with the huge cost associated with it, better to go for JH7B adding new Chinese weapons.
My vote goes to JH7B