JF17 will not mature into a mature, modern and a fearsome aircraft till PAC takes a decision and convinces AVIC to work together for some major structural changes. The new block 3 should be locked up with an improved or a newer engine option (be it RD93MA, RD33 or WS13) and then structural modifications should be decided so as to allow ample time to conduct assessments including the wind tunnel tests. The way forward is to think outside the box.
JF17 must carry extra fuel, more armaments and have a better ground clearance. If wings can not be extended then the length / Spine must be extended or increased in height (like the one on the dual seat model) so as to accommodate at least an extra 750 to 1000 ltrs. The nose cone must also be increased in dia so as to incorporate both an AESA and an IRST within the nose cone itself potentially leaving a vital weapon station free for armament. Going by the same principle a newer pod station should be evaluated near the air intakes. The above if coupled with a bigger wing area can lead to an increased area which can be used for landing gear folding into wings / extra fuel in wings and/or extra station per wing.
I have read the comments by Deino and rest of the fellow members but none have said that it is not doable. Difficult, yes.... impossible, No. We must start now so as to have a final configuration and locked down specs by mid next year. Things are changing on our eastern border. MMRCA is no more, the cut down numbers of rafael may or may not come. Never the less PAF should watch the evolving and unending rafael scenario but what we must be really concerned with is India getting Gripen NG with or without local production. In either of two purchases by India, or in case of current or upgraded Su30s.... if JF17 or any other future aircraft is to give a serious and fearsome competition then the above requirements must be fulfilled one way or the other.
JF17 must carry extra fuel, more armaments and have a better ground clearance. If wings can not be extended then the length / Spine must be extended or increased in height (like the one on the dual seat model) so as to accommodate at least an extra 750 to 1000 ltrs. The nose cone must also be increased in dia so as to incorporate both an AESA and an IRST within the nose cone itself potentially leaving a vital weapon station free for armament. Going by the same principle a newer pod station should be evaluated near the air intakes. The above if coupled with a bigger wing area can lead to an increased area which can be used for landing gear folding into wings / extra fuel in wings and/or extra station per wing.
I have read the comments by Deino and rest of the fellow members but none have said that it is not doable. Difficult, yes.... impossible, No. We must start now so as to have a final configuration and locked down specs by mid next year. Things are changing on our eastern border. MMRCA is no more, the cut down numbers of rafael may or may not come. Never the less PAF should watch the evolving and unending rafael scenario but what we must be really concerned with is India getting Gripen NG with or without local production. In either of two purchases by India, or in case of current or upgraded Su30s.... if JF17 or any other future aircraft is to give a serious and fearsome competition then the above requirements must be fulfilled one way or the other.