EQUIPMENT/JF-17 Thunder Block 3
JF-17 Thunder Block 3
AIRCRAFT

JF-17 THUNDER BLOCK 3

JF-17B Block 3
Multirole Fighter
🇵🇰
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Pakistan / China
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OVERVIEW
MANUFACTURERPakistan Aeronautical Complex / Chengdu Aircraft Corporation
YEAR INTRODUCED2022
UNITS IN SERVICE26
UNITS PRODUCED26
UNIT COST$32.0M

The JF-17 Thunder Block 3 represents a generational leap for Pakistan's lightweight fighter program, co-developed with China's Chengdu Aircraft Corporation. The Block 3 introduces the KLJ-7A active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar — making it one of the most affordable AESA-equipped fighters globally — along with a wide-angle holographic HUD, helmet-mounted display, and compatibility with the PL-15E beyond-visual-range missile with a reported range exceeding 145 km. The aircraft serves as Pakistan's hedge against India's Rafale acquisition and its primary fighter for export to nations seeking affordable modern air power. Myanmar, Nigeria, and several Middle Eastern nations have shown interest, making the JF-17 a significant player in the global fighter export market.

TECHNICAL SPECS

Crew
1
Weight
6.6 tonnes (empty), 12.7 tonnes (max takeoff)
Length
14.93 m
Wingspan
9.45 m
Top Speed
Mach 1.8
Range
3,480 km (ferry with 3 drop tanks)
Combat Radius
1,352 km
Ceiling
16,700 m
Engine
1× Klimov RD-93MA, 9,300 kgf with afterburner
Payload
3,800 kg on 7 hardpoints
Armament
23mm GSh-23-2 cannon; PL-15E BVR missiles, PL-10E WVR missiles; C-802A anti-ship missiles; various PGMs
Avionics
KLJ-7A AESA radar, helmet-mounted display, ASELPOD targeting pod, integrated EW suite

COMBAT HISTORY

JF-17 Block 1/2 used in February 2019 India-Pakistan air confrontation and anti-militant strikes in Waziristan. Block 3 entering squadron service.

OPERATORS