The Raven
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Why would you want to replace the F-16? Out of all the aircraft you have,why the F-16? You have F-7s and Mirage III and V that you could retire
It's not about replacing the F-16, but rather the options that the PAF faces in terms of making up the numbers when the F-7s and Mirages are eventually retired. This all depends on whether the PAF can (or should) acquire more Vipers (it has historically aimed for a fleet of over 100), or whether it should augment the 'medium eight' class of its Viper fleet with a more accessible and less risky type, and the only real option for the PAF is the J-10CE. The Vipers will of course be retired at some point, especially when whatever emerges from project Azm, and the J-10CE could act as the transition platform from between the Viper fleet drawing down, to expanding the fifth gen fighter in numbers.
I agree. I'd add that the J-10CE would also be the start of the PAF's 'next generation' fleet. AZM/NGFA is still a loose variable, a lot of uncertainties (besides flowery words from the PAF). However, the J-10CE is real and tangible -- if past PAF procurement habits are anything to go by, the PAF could ultimately commit to 90+ units. IMO, I'd weigh more on additional J-10CEs until we see tangible progress towards AZM.
Especially if the PAF adopts a similar model as the JF-17, using a baseline Chinese design and using it as a staging platform for developing 'next gen' technology capability in-house. Much of the project Azm initiatives and aviation city are only possible because of the capabilities developed from the JF-17 programme.