@Manticore
1--What is PAF's priority [ Land defence,Sea denial, deep attacks with heavy bombs or smart ammunitions ] ?
Unfortunately it will be complete guess work on my part…perhaps a little bit of everything? In my opinion currently we don’t have a properly effective deep attack platform (barring our Mirages).
2--Can jf-17 completely meet those demands/doctrine even after aesa/ifr probe/composites/strengthened structure/tweaked engine?
JFT will turn out to be a very potent and lethal platform with all the above mentioned upgrades…and with numbers….I reckon anyone would think at least twice or thrice before thinking of a misadventure in our skies. However…the question I would ask is that after all these upgrades, will the JFT supersede our F-16s (because they’re our current benchmark)? If the experts believe that with our current F-16’s we’ll be able manage the threat of IAF(Rafale included)….then I don’t find the reason as to why can’t an upgraded JFT won’t be able to do it.
3--If not what are the options and possible numbers? Is the cost of buying/ training/maintenance/spare parts/ years to build strategy/ availability rate worth the hassle?
If in case the JFTs can’t fulfil the expectations…then I reckon a Chinese option will make the most sense in terms of all the above parameters. I doubt it will be a hassle as well.
4--S300 copies vs introduction of another 4.5 gen fighter?
This is a bit complex in my opinion. From what I understand a solid SAM platform/network will greatly augment the PAF within our own airspace. S-300 copies would act like force-multiplier (I hope it’s the correct term here) for our JFTs and F-16s. Considering our traditional budgetary constraints I doubt we’ll be able to induct 4.5 gen platforms in numbers…so it’s either they’ll be used for deep strike/maritime missions OR defence? I reckon vis-à-vis Rafale….we’ll need to invest in the both of ‘em. I reckon better AWACS will also be important in our fight against IAF Rafales.
5--Should we wait another decade for j31 or should we buy some 4.5 gen fighter instead and develop tactics in the meanwhile
Ideally (in my opinion) we should stop trying playing catch-up and wait for a 5th gen platform. The world around is constantly evolving (in terms of technology and threat)…and that too at a scary pace. Better swallow a bitter pill in the present for a better vision/future of tomorrow.
7--Is the replacement of 190 old fighters with a BVR capable light fighter sufficient keeping in view Pakistan's economy?
Sufficient in view of Pakistan’s economy? Yes. However we must have a vision if want to see ourselves in the future.
8--J10 and JF-17 may have similar capability but they DON'T have SAME capability. Are the J-10 an ideal replacement for the mirage squadrons?
Sort of. Mirage has a better combat radius and ferry range as compared to J-10….while the rest of the specifications are quite identical. J-10 does have a better take-off weight. In my opinion the J-10 platform can be deployed for a deep strike role inside the Indian territory but it won’t that effective in the maritime roles. I am assuming that the electronic suits/avionics will be similar in both the platforms (Mirage vs. J-10). Specifically only in regards to Rafale….I don’t really see the point of inducting J-10 platform.
9--Is there any chance of getting reliable subsystems for jft from the French?
Reliable in terms of quality? Yes. Reliable in terms of geo-politics and logistics? No
10--Other than numbers, what capability rafale brings to IAF, which they wont exploit in the su30 including its naval role
I am very poor when it comes to technicalities...but if I had to guess I would say the reduced RCS will be a huge advantage for them and a major threat for us.
11-- Importance of loiter time in war
Quite important I assume. It would save some crucial time in certain situations as well I guess.
12--Are destroyers, submarines, helicopters, s300 derivatives and cruise missiles the answer?
Don’t know about the destroyers, submarines and the helicopters…doubt they would do much against the Rafale. However S300 can be effectively used and the cruise missiles can be used for pre-empt their airfields or parked aircraft….still debatable though.
13--Importance of joint ventures for subsystems avionics / ammunitions with countries other than China
Turkey is the only country which comes to mind at the moment.
Disclaimer: I am not an expert...obviously.
