During the 1990s, an intriguing shift occurred within the sphere of globalmilitary aviation. The Russian Mikoyan Design Bureau, renowned for itssuperior aircraft designs, found itself in an unexpected predicament.Rather than marketing its own aircraft across the globe as it hadtraditionally done, the bureau was compelled to relinquish its developmentsto the Chinese. This transfer of technology led to a significantcollaboration between China and Pakistan, culminating in the commencementof production for the JF-17 Thunder fighter.[image: JF-17 fighter jet is important for Pakistan and can change theregional power (video)]Photo credit: AP
Intriguingly, the engine that resided within was an RD-93, a modifiedvariant of the RD-33, the very lifeblood of the MiG-29. After a series ofnegotiations and deliberations, China ultimately secured the rights tomanufacture the RD-93 on its own soil. The respective Russian corporation,in exchange for this concession, was remunerated a considerable sum, thusenabling its continued existence. Nevertheless, since those eventstranspired, a significant passage of time has occurred, with many changesunfolding in its wake.
The JF-17, widely recognized as the pivotal component of the Pakistan AirForce, maintains a robust presence, with 146 operational units currently incirculation. This particular model of fighter jet was originally craftedwithin the industrial confines of China. However, the production landscapeunderwent a significant transformation when a joint venture wassubsequently initiated in Pakistan. This collaborative endeavor effectivelyfacilitated the successful domestic manufacture of these formidablemachines for an extended duration.[image: JF-17 approaches 4++: Pilot helmets have full awareness HMDdisplay]Photocredit: Twitter
Currently, one could consider the JF-17 as outdated, yet it is critical tonote that China has already advanced to the third modification of thismodel. This updated version significantly outperforms its predecessor inevery aspect. Despite this, the earlier models of these fighters persist inservice, for they retain their ability to accomplish the missions they areassigned to.
Contrary to initial expectations, a significant portion of the JF-17 wasfound to be non-operational. The root cause, as per expert analysis, wastraced back to the Russian engine. It is critical to understand that,despite the engine itself being devoid of any inherent technicaldeficiencies, it does not negate the necessity for regular maintenance andservice.
As reported by journalists from the EurAsian Times, Pakistani officialshave made requests to their Chinese counterparts to commence maintenance onthe engines. However, the reasons behind China’s reluctance to address theissue remain enigmatic. As time continues to elapse, the planes remaingrounded, causing significant disruption. Consequently, the situation haselicited a response from the Russian Klimov UEC representatives, who haveexpressed their potential willingness to lend assistance to the Pakistaniauthorities.
In the vicinity where the RD-93 engine was brought into existence,a tangible opportunity presents itself for the initiation of spare partsproduction. However, a significant obstacle looms in the form ofRosoboronexport, the entity tasked with the sale of components, repairservices, and various other duties, which currently languishes under theweight of US sanctions. The apprehension gripping the Pakistani authoritiesabout potential secondary sanctions, should they opt to collaboratedirectly with Russia, is palpable. Consequently, the fighters remaingrounded, despite the availability of spare parts, and the issue remainsunresolved.
Photo credit: Pakistan Air Force
It is noteworthy to mention that the JF-17 “Thunder” boasts an impressivelength of 14 meters and a wingspan stretching to 8.5 meters. The singularlyinstalled power plant equips the jet with a substantial load capacity of3,720 kilograms. The range for executing combat operations is capped ata considerable distance of 1,200 kilometers, although some sources suggestan extended reach of up to 1,350 kilometers.
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With an impressive flight range that extends up to 3,000 kilometers ona single charge, the JF-17 “Thunder” exhibits unparalleled endurance. Thisrobust fighter jet, boasting a maximum velocity of 1,900 km/h, is capableof ascending to an altitude of 15,200 meters, thus demonstrating itsformidable aerial prowess.
The JF-17 “Thunder” is not only remarkable for its speed and range, butalso for its versatile armament. It is equipped to carry an extensive arrayof weaponry, inclusive of both air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles.Additionally, it is capable of deploying aerial bombs, further enhancingits combat capabilities.
At present, the JF-17s are outfitted with the Chinese KLJ-10 radars and theSD-10 / PL-12 medium-range anti-aircraft missiles, possessing an activeguidance system. As per the stipulations of the military-technicalcooperation agreement with China, the initial batch of 50 fighters wassupplied with Chinese radar systems. After this, the aircraft underwenta series of enhancements, integrating a blend of avionics and radarsdeveloped domestically in Pakistan, in conjunction with European radars.
In the past, the military of Pakistan was contemplating the acquisition ofthe RC-400 radar and MICA air-to-air missiles, commodities produced by theFrench firm, MBDA, a subsidiary of Thales. Additionally, talks wereconducted with both British and Italian corporations to explore thepotential for the provision of requisite equipment.
Source: Bulgarianmilitary.com
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