CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder
13 Views
Blog Written By: Jabeen Zara
Scan QR Code to Read Blog on Mobile
The CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder, also known as FC-1 Xiaolong (in China), is a lightweight, multi-role combat aircraft developed jointly by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) of China and the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC).
It's designed to be a cost-effective and modern fighter jet for air forces that need advanced capabilities on a limited budget.
1. Development and Background
Joint project between China and Pakistan, started in the 1990s.
Aimed at replacing aging aircraft like the MiG-21, F-7, and Mirage III/V in the Pakistan Air Force.
First flight: 2003
Inducted into Pakistan Air Force: 2007
2. Design and Capabilities
Crew: 1 (single-seat), though a two-seat variant (JF-17B) is also operational for training.
Length: Approx. 14.93 m
Wingspan: Approx. 9.45 m
Max Takeoff Weight: Around 12,700 kg
Engine: 1 × Klimov RD-93 turbofan engine (Russian origin), future variants may use Chinese engines like the WS-13.
Top Speed: Mach 1.6–1.8.
3. Armament and Systems
Hardpoints: 7 (can carry up to 3,600+ kg of weapons)
Weapons:
Air-to-air missiles (e.g., PL-5, PL-12, SD-10)
Air-to-ground missiles (e.g., CM-400AKG)
Laser-guided bombs, unguided bombs, and rocket pods
23mm or 30mm internal cannon
Avionics:
Modern multi-mode radar (KLJ-7 or AESA in newer Block III)
Glass cockpit with HUD and MFDs
Fly-by-wire flight control (in some variants)
Electronic warfare and countermeasure systems .
4. Variants
JF-17 Block I: Basic production model
JF-17 Block II: Improved avionics, in-flight refueling capability
JF-17 Block III: Features AESA radar, improved sensors, upgraded avionics, HMD, and possibly stealth features
JF-17B: Two-seat version for training and combat roles .
5. Operational Use
Primary Operator: Pakistan Air Force
Other Operators: Myanmar, Nigeria
Combat Experience: Used in border patrols, anti-terrorism ops, and air defense. Claimed to have participated in actual combat during Pakistan-India skirmishes in 2019.
6. Significance
A symbol of Pakistan's growing defense capabilities and strategic autonomy.
Offers countries an affordable 4th-generation fighter alternative.
Competes with fighters like the F-16, Gripen, and Tejas in export markets.
with Islamabad