JF-17 Thunder: Sino-Pakistani negotiates Block 3 program
(Defensa.com) The JF-17 Thunder fighter bomber, a collaboration between the Chinese CATIC (China National Aero-Technology Import Export Corpotarion) and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, managed by the PAF (Pakistan Air Force), is part of a new generation of light fighter with a large multi-role capability and extensive capabilities to operate various weapons systems at competitive costs.
In fact, it is thought equally to meet different aircraft generations, some of them already overcome, as they may be elements of the Mig 21/27, Mirage III / V, or the F5 American family among others. In a brief review of the aircraft, we highlight its overall dimensions, including in 14 meters long, 8.5 meters wide including its wing area 5.1 high. Maximum takeoff weight of 13.5 tons, with a capacity of 4,600 kilos external loads. It powered by a turbofan engine Klimov Russian RD-93 design, it is capable of providing a thrust of 8,700 kilos; which Pakistanis are very satisfied. Powered by said vector, you can reach a top speed of Mach 1.6, coupled with a range of 3,000 km standard speeds with additional external repositories.
New engine to overcome Russian restrictions
In the last edition of the Paris Air Show additional information intended to repotencir the platform in question they are also met. According to these, China would be developing a new engine, intended to replace the RD-93, license restrictions by Russia, which would be limited in time in 500 units. The engine under development by China would be the WS-13, and its thrust could be in the 9.5 tons. Other features thereon are unknown; although it seems that the Chinese are found difficulties in its setup. The 50 aircraft produced so far in Pakistan for the Block 1, but has already begun production of Block 2 are currently under renegotiation phase of Block 3 with China, this new series include a new active radar sweep mail (EFSA). In this last block, also understand the built-in helmet for the reporting display as well as the option of a double seat tandem cockpit.
Armament
The presence in Paris of the JF-17 was accompanied by several of their weapons systems, among them highlight the C-705KD TV guided missile, a version of which go beyond panic attack would amount greater than 140 kilometers; the apparatus in question could be used in one to four units raid. Anti-radiation missile CM-102, with a range of action of up to 100 kilometers, which can be increased significantly with new developments is that is being submitted by industrial corporations of Chinese and Pakistani partners.
Another important element is the little-known CM-400AKG a ground attack missile propelled at a speed of Mach 5 has inertial guidance / GPS system, which would allow him to attack fixed targets, but moving targets such as ships, With its active systems. Other sensors such as targeting pod WMD-7 for night / day use, or air-to-air medium-range missile SD-10th, would among others of the weapons that may operate the aircraft.
As for the prospects, 11 would be the countries interested in the aircraft; some of them contemplate the co-production, and between Argentina would be found. The first export customer has been confirmed to be Sri Lanka.
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