I concur. The JF-17 is a good economic package for the PAF, but the airframe design has its limitations. This was already apparent on the drawing board. It is very important to realize that the JF-17 was designed to lower the overall mass replacement cost of our aging fleet. The PAF has limited funds. It has to make the most within these constraints. The benefits of the Chinese Pak JV are enormous. Not only have we developed a fighter which provides complete self reliance, but our domestic defense aviation industry has also gained exposure in the process. For Pakistan, it has been a complete win win.
Our adversary is opting for advanced aircraft. We don't need to delve into their capabilities because they speak volume. Our adversary has both abundant resources and the blessing of a superpower. Our adversary has no obstacles. We on the other hand have to face certain impediments. Having said that, currently we have excellent options at our disposal to make up for this deficiency. There is wide acknowledgement that in the light of the latest developments, the PAF requires a superior counter alternative. The JF-17 along with the F-16 are good 4th gen platforms which can act as force multipliers and the bulk of the air force.
First and foremost, we have the Chinese option. The J-10C is indeed an attractive and viable option as a long range fighter requirement. This platform can be purchased in greater numbers and since China is a close ally, these fighters could be acquired on favorable economic terms. The PAF could even opt to work on the avionics side with the Chinese to further enhance its specific requirements. In other words, the Chinese option is the most logical.
The other option is the Russian Su-35. We know that talks have been ongoing and the Russians have openly admitted their willingness to sell these fighters to Pakistan. Needless to say, but this fighter is truly the very definition of a long range air superiority fighter. In short, it offers the complete package. It is an investment worth making because our requirements dictate it.
Some people who propose that the JF-17 and F-16 are sufficient to counter aggressive designs from across the border are in denial. Whilst these fighters can act as the main bulk workhorse of the PAF, we cannot ignore the fact that we require an additional frontline air superiority premium fighter. Whilst the PAF has no aggressive nor any offensive designs, it requires a premium fighter whose presence would make the enemy quiver and think before making any misadventures attempts. Additionally, the air superiority fighter needs to fulfill naval duties in order to secure our newly acquired maritime interests.
There is no debate about acquiring a frontline long range platform. It is only a matter of when.