Dubai AirshowPakistan secures JF-17 Thunder export deal at Dubai Airshow
Pakistan announced that a partner nation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to acquire the JF-17 Thunder fighter during the Dubai Airshow at Al Maktoum International Airport on November 20.
Pakistani officials, however, have not revealed who the new operator of the single-engine fighter jet is.
The agreement followed a formal presentation of the Block III configuration, which drew interest from multiple delegations due to its improved capabilities and operational record.
The JF-17 Thunder is a joint development between China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation and the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, with the Block III model introducing the KLJ-7A radar and enhanced payload capacity.
The Block III variatn is the most advanced of the Thunder program and marks a major step in Pakistan and China’s joint fighter development. The aircraft made its first flight in Chengdu on 15 December 2019, followed by a second prototype in Pakistan. Serial production began at PAC Kamra in December 2020.
The new fighter jet introduces a wide set of upgrades centered on sensors, avionics, and pilot awareness, including the air cooled KLJ 7A AESA radar built under license at Kamra, a digital three axis fly by wire system, an infrared search and track sensor, and a new holographic wide angle head up display.
The jet also adds a helmet mounted display and sight system jointly developed by both countries, a missile approach warning setup similar to that used on China’s latest fighters, and greater use of composite materials to reduce weight.
Production accelerated through 2021 and early 2022, with ten aircraft photographed at PAC Kamra after rollout. The first batch entered PAF service in March 2023, part of an initial order for 50 aircraft.
The JF-17 program has secured several export customers. Azerbaijan has taken delivery of nine aircraft and holds orders for another 31, operating the type from Nasosnaya Air Base. Myanmar has received 13 jets with three more on order, based at Meiktila Air Base. Nigeria operates three aircraft from NAF Base Makurdi. Pakistan remains the largest user by far, with 161 aircraft delivered and 27 still on order.
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