Bilal Khan (Quwa)
SENIOR MEMBER
- Joined
- Aug 22, 2016
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If Pakistan participates (still a huge 'if' for many reasons), I don't think it will be in R&D. If anything, it'd be an exchange for procuring a few to help with scale, and could potentially involve supply-chain linking Pakistan to be the source (or a source) for some parts. If the PAF plans on procuring a relatively large amount of jets, then the 'tech transfer' could be in the realm of local MRO and perhaps permission/capacity to integrate weapons and sub-systems of choice to the platform. It'd basically be a step above just an off-the-shelf purchase (i.e. the arrangement the PAF has with the F-16s). But I wouldn't bet on crucial membership, incredibly unlikely. Pakistan isn't even a crucial member of the Shenyang FC-31, let alone a Western fighter.I'm skeptical about Pakistan's participation to be honest. One of the main reasons we are so willing to cooperate/help Turkey in such a crucial sensitive military project is also because Turkey is part of NATO and has been a close member/aligned to the West for over half a century now. So it's military doctrine, equipments, defence policies and arms industry is heavily tilted twoards European powers and the U.S( the West in general). As such it's far easier for us o streamline our cooperation and partner in building such complex weapon systems , something which will be inconceivable to-do with a non NATO member. Plus Pakistan close ties with China(government might be wary of its sensitive technology leaking to the Chinese as well) MIGHT also be an issue. So it might be an issue letting Pakistan in( at least not as a crucial member with access to sensitive technology/source codes etc ) such a project apart from a symbolic one . Plus alot of investment running into tens of bjllions will also be required throughout the lifetime of this project (15-20years or so)
That said, Pakistan might try to separately collaborate with Turkey to develop bespoke electronics and munitions technology for its own usage. Indigenization in this realm would enable Pakistan to flexibly configure its defence systems according to its needs and not be as encumbered by supplier restrictions (involving third-party integration). But I don't think there'll be jumping on existing makes or models, rather, getting China, Turkey and others to help with soft capacity building (i.e. education, training, etc). For Pakistan to succeed properly, it'll need to undertake the IP development on its own.