Today we’ll be looking at the JF-17, a fourth generation jet fighter, jointly developed by Pakistan and China, originally to replace the dated fleets of F-104 and Mirage fighters in the PAF’s fleet.
JF-17: A Squadron Vehicle Jet Fighter for China at Rank VIII
At a glance:
- Excellent flight characteristics: Mach 1.6 capable at higher alts.
- Versatile arsenal: guided bombs, air-to-air missiles, regular bombs & rockets.
- Modern radar.
For a long time, the Pakistan Air Force has been an operator of western fighter jets, such as the American F-104 and French Mirage. In the wake of the Indo-Pakistan War however, the PAF increasingly resorted to adopting Chinese aircraft into service due to western sanctions. Soon after, Pakistani and Chinese engineers began work developing a new fighter on the basis of the J-7, which featured a new engine, side air intakes and improved radar. The project received the name “Saber II”, with Grumman aircraft joining the project later on. However, Pakistan ended up procuring the F-16A which shifted focus away from the project. Nevertheless, Grumman and the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation continued work on the project, modifying the original design and renaming the project to “Super-7”. However, Grumman soon pulled out of the project.
In the mid 1990s, work resumed on the Super-7 with Pakistan planning to adopt the aircraft as a support fighter for the F-16. With further design changes following in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the JF-17 as it eventually became known, undertook its maiden flight in August 2003. Following a successful test period, the aircraft officially entered service with the PAF in March 2007, replacing most of the outdated imported aircraft of the previous century. The JF-17 serves with the PAF to this day and has taken part in several military operations since its entry into service.
Meet the JF-17!
The JF-17 will soon be joining the top ranks of the Chinese aircraft tree as a new squadron vehicle coming in the Dance of Dragons major War Thunder update. Representing a joint development between Pakistan and China, the JF-17 is developed on the basis of the Chinese J-7 fighter, but incorporates many upgrades and design changes which greatly elevate the aircraft’s combat performance. Let’s dive into the full details!
Designed to complement the F-16A in service with the PAF, the JF-17 is a modern, fourth generation fighter, featuring all the bells and whistles fans of modern combat aircraft expect from this kind of aircraft. For instance, the JF-17 is powered by the extremely powerful Klimov RD-93 turbofan engine, powering the Soviet MiG-29 series of fighters. As a result, the aircraft can reach top speeds of Mach 1.6 at higher altitudes, while also boasting excellent acceleration and maneuverability — features particularly useful in intense dogfights. Complementing the aircraft’s excellent flight characteristics are also a modern radar system as well as radar and missile approach warning systems closely integrated with the aircraft’s countermeasures.
Did you know? “JF-17” stands for “Joint Fighter-17”, signifying the joint development of this aircraft by Pakistan and China.
In terms of the JF-17’s offensive capabilities, this aircraft is equipped with a dual 23 mm universal cannon with 200 rounds of ammunition and features up to seven hardpoints which can outfit with various ordnance options. The choices range from short-range IR PL-5EII missiles, SD-10(A) radar guided missiles to new to the game BRM-1 laser-guided ASMs and a variety of guided bombs, including GBU-10, GBU-12, GBU-16, as well as Chinese GB500 and GB250. As for conventional ordnance, there’s Hydra rockets and several types of bombs, including 2,000 lbs. In short, the JF-17 is best equipped for multirole, making it an ideal choice for pilots in both air and combined arms battles at the top ranks.
The JF-17 will soon be making its way to War Thunder as part of the Dance of Dragons major update. You’ll be able to obtain this new top ranking Chinese aircraft either through squadron activity or by purchasing it with Golden Eagles. In the meantime, make sure to stay tuned to the news for the latest information regarding the upcoming update!
Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.
