Only because J10 is high end for PAF, doesn't make it high end for PLAAF or PLAN. The same high / low mix of a heavy twin engine and medium single engine fighter is used in several forces all over the world. Also having the same engine for J10 and J15, makes it even easier and more cost-effevective to operate them, compared to a J15 / JF17 combo and not to mention that the cost for J10 and Chinese forces aren't that high either, so cost is not a real argument here.
My point was more in regard to the design and structural differences between JF 17 and J10 and if there would be any advantage that would make JF 17 more favourable to be a carrier fighter?
You may call me crazy for dragging the Thunder in to PLA Navy carrier. Briefly,one of the simmering issue at present is how far J-10 can be improved and upgraded. J-10 is reaching a point where further upgrades may not be possible even though it is a great aircraft. JF-17 is not only inexpensive but has a lot of room to grow. A lot of talks and rumors are circulating, not necessarily that they are all true but they point to ideas that may or could be incorporated. I may state a few of them:
1. The single tall vertical tail may make way for twin tail to make it more stealthy. Also as Chinese have not designed and produced a twin tail yet, there seems to be a desire by the Chinese to introduce their own designed twin tail and introdece it for FC-1/JF-17
2. Twin tail will also reduce the weight
3.Change the circular rcs to diamond shaped cross section to improve stealthiness.
5. Keep the iconic DSI but make modify it due to changes in the nose
6. Increase the rounded edges on the wing. This will not only enable Thunder to perform better at low speed and at low altitude flying
This will also increase the wing tank capacity and increase range
7.Change the spine design and raise the cockpit for a better flight vision
8.Increase the take off weight.
Rest later. My eyes are hurting now.
Thank you so much for the respect shown by many on this forum and others. I am grateful. It is a bonus for old peorson like me to enjoy it at a time when respect for elders by youngsters is wanning in the new world.
P.S. MuradK not his true name, and i joined PAF on the same day but left at different times. He stayed with PAF and I went on to work in Defence industry in UK and USA in 1970s.