I do agree with you. Nothing is free, even if it is being produced indigenously.
But most of the respected PDF members are having a very strong opinion about PAF inducting a new 4+ gen aircraft from China or Russia or Sweden to fill the "gap" and to replace F-7s and old Mirages. Some are in favor of F-16 upgradation and procurement of additional F-16s.
As I stated earlier, under current geopolitical circumstances, US AID is out of question. Cost of F-16 upgradation and procurement of additional F-16s is out of reach for PAF.
Cost of inducting a new 4+ gen air platform is very high comparing to induction of air platform which is already in use. However. rate of induction will depend on the availability of financial resources. Provision of trained and skilled human resource for one squadron on yearly basis will not a big deal for PAF. Support infrastructure, tooling, test rigs and various JF-17 specific maintenance support equipment will be needed for each new squadron to cater first and second level of maintenance.