Yeah Till some time ago ... I used to have similar views about air power. But 27/2 proves that it is planning, coordination, synergy of different air elements and execution which makes the difference more than the technology. (though tech is critically important). F-16s is one thing, PAF knows inside out. MKI was not hunted by a Block-52, but an upgraded older F-16. Strikes in Noushera, Rajorie etc. was not carried out by a dedicated bomber but upgraded but old Mirage fighters. What it tells us is that PAF, over the decades, have mastered F-16 and Mirage tactics. The reason I am asking for their replacement is their age. They have contributed 25 out of 26 of PAF air crashes from 2012-2019. Otherwise we only lost 1 single JF-17 Thunder in crash. No F-16. IAF has managed to destroy 7 MKI and 3 Mirage 2000 in the same time. Though their total number stands at 47 during the same time period if we count in Migs 21/23/27/29 and Jaguar. Replacing their old fighters is their problem, but we must get rid of our's ASAP. F-7Ps can be replaced with BlockII with aggressive push in production to each replacement will be a massive jump in capability. Real worry is what we are going to those 160+ Mirages we are operating right now. This explains why PAF is so eager to have older F-16s. They can accelerate the replacement process. Actually, PAF's romance with this machine continues till it will keep evolving. Now F-16V upgrades, Block-72 are there, I am certain PAF will at least try to get these for our existing fleet and boosting the numerical strength.
