Addition of another 18 F16 C/D does not , effects the JF17 Thunder program in no way what so ever
Towards end of 2011 , which is 6 months from now the JF17 thunder program has already achieved its goals and success rations
a) It has successfully allowed Pakistan to be able to replace its older planes from late 60's and mid 70's
b) It has allowed Pakistan airforce to induct planes with engines that are brand new and airframe is brand new
c) It has allowed pakistan to import and induct BVR missiles into its airforce and enhanced its capabilities
d) The J17 thunder fighter is no different in term of aerobtical maneuvering and abilities then F16 C/D
e) The avionics suit on JF17 thunder is more modern and capable then anything Pakistan Airforce had in past and it will further improve
f) The thunder program is based on "SPECIFICATION" of Pakistan airforce , and its been met mile stone reached
g) Block 2 Thunders offer more potent capabilities perhaps matching or surpassing F16 C/D
h) Its 100% integrability with Chinese AWACS
i) The JF17 thunder is combat proven as it has run 5,000+ missions over Afghanistan / Pakistan border no doubt over since 2008
j) The JF17 thunder continues to
EVOLVE ...
The F16 C/D offer us more in term of integration with lets say the SAAB erie eye awacs platform as a independent unit
The F16 C/D offers us , continued service for another 15 years , and getting 18 more fighters will ensure that we continue to defend border of Pakistan
A force of 80-100 crafts of F16 C/D origin is a great option for Pakistani Airforce these are being aquired based on existing contracts we had its not something new but something we already had negotiated 5-7 years ago