Somalia Reportedly Exploring JF-17 Block III Fighters Amid Turkish Defence Cooperation and Possible Qatari Support

Somalia is reportedly exploring the acquisition of JF-17 Block III multirole fighters from Pakistan as part of broader efforts to rebuild its long-dormant air combat capability. While no official contract has been announced, defence discussions suggest Mogadishu could be considering a package of up to 24 aircraft, potentially enough to form two operational squadrons.

The JF-17 Block III represents the most advanced variant of the Thunder family, equipped with an AESA radar, updated avionics, modern cockpit systems, and compatibility with beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles and precision-guided munitions. Its relatively lower cost compared to Western fighters has made it an attractive option for air forces seeking modern capability within constrained budgets.

Somalia’s ongoing defence cooperation with Turkey is an important contextual factor. Ankara has significantly expanded its military presence and training programmes in the country over the past decade, supporting Somali security forces through infrastructure development, personnel training, and operational assistance. Any future fighter programme could potentially benefit from Turkish advisory support, training frameworks, or broader security cooperation mechanisms already in place.

Financing remains one of the biggest question marks. Analysts and regional observers have speculated that external financial backing — potentially involving Qatar, which has previously supported Somali security initiatives — could play a role if a fast-jet acquisition moves forward. However, no official confirmation of funding structures has been released.

Significant hurdles remain. Somalia currently lacks the infrastructure, logistics network, and trained personnel required to sustain high-performance combat aircraft. Establishing maintenance facilities, pilot pipelines, and long-term sustainment agreements would be essential prerequisites for any future deal.

For now, reports of a 24-aircraft JF-17 Block III proposal should be viewed as preliminary discussions rather than a confirmed procurement. Even so, the idea reflects Somalia’s ambition to restore a sovereign air combat capability and could signal a new phase in military modernisation efforts across the Horn of Africa if it eventually materialises.

Libya Signs for JF-17 Fighters: Pakistan’s First Arab Customer

 

Libya appears poised to become the first Arab operator of the Pakistan–China co-developed JF-17 Thunder, following credible international reporting that confirms a major defence agreement between Pakistan and Libya’s eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA). If implemented, the deal would represent not only one of Pakistan’s largest-ever arms exports, but also a profound shift in Libya’s future airpower trajectory after more than a decade of conflict, fragmentation, and sanctions.

According to multiple authoritative sources, including Reuters and major Pakistani defence outlets, the agreement covers the acquisition of 16 JF-17 multirole fighter aircraft, alongside 12 Super Mushak trainer aircraft, pilot and technician training, logistical support, and broader military cooperation. The estimated value of the deal ranges between $4 and $4.6 billion, making it one of the most significant defence export contracts in Pakistan’s history.

The Libya–Pakistan defence agreement, including the JF-17 fighter deal, was signed in late January 2026, during a high-level visit by senior Libyan National Army (LNA) representatives to Islamabad, according to Reuters reporting and Pakistani defence ministry sources.

While no formal public signing ceremony was broadcast, multiple diplomatic and defence-industry sources confirmed that final contractual approval was reached between January 22–26, 2026, following several months of negotiations and technical evaluations.

For Libya, the significance of this development cannot be overstated. Since the collapse of the Gaddafi regime in 2011, Libyan airpower has steadily deteriorated. Once one of the largest and most capable air forces in North Africa, Libya today operates a fragmented and aging fleet composed mainly of legacy MiG-21s, MiG-23s, limited MiG-29s, and a small number of restored Mirage F1 aircraft. Maintenance challenges, shortages of spare parts, pilot attrition, and combat losses have severely degraded operational readiness.

The introduction of a modern multirole fighter such as the JF-17 would instantly alter this picture. Equipped with modern avionics, active electronically scanned array radar options, precision-guided munitions, and beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles, the JF-17 offers a credible leap into 4.5-generation combat capability. For the Libyan National Army, this would provide not only a significant boost in air superiority and strike potential, but also a symbolic demonstration of military modernisation and political legitimacy.

Strategically, the choice of the JF-17 is revealing. Western fighter aircraft remain politically inaccessible due to sanctions, human rights concerns, and unresolved legitimacy issues surrounding Libya’s competing authorities. Russian combat aircraft, while available, present logistical, financial, and geopolitical risks amid Moscow’s own operational commitments and growing international isolation. In this context, Pakistan offers a politically flexible, cost-effective, and technically capable alternative, supported by Chinese industrial backing and supply chains.

For Pakistan, the Libyan agreement represents a breakthrough moment in its defence export ambitions. The JF-17 programme has long sought to establish itself as a credible competitor in the global light fighter market, targeting air forces constrained by limited budgets, political restrictions, or sanctions. While earlier exports to Myanmar and Nigeria validated the platform’s export viability, Libya would mark the first Arab and North African customer, opening an entirely new strategic market space.

This deal also strengthens Pakistan’s broader geopolitical footprint in North Africa and the Mediterranean region. By becoming a long-term supplier of combat aircraft, training, and logistical support, Islamabad embeds itself deeply into Libya’s future military architecture. Such relationships tend to endure for decades, shaping doctrine, interoperability, and procurement alignment.

However, the agreement is not without controversy. Libya remains subject to a United Nations arms embargo, and while the Libyan National Army claims legal justifications under existing frameworks, the international community remains divided on the legitimacy of large-scale arms transfers. Western governments are likely to scrutinise any delivery process closely, potentially exerting diplomatic pressure to delay or limit implementation.

Despite these obstacles, available evidence suggests that preparations are moving forward. Training pipelines, infrastructure upgrades, and logistical planning reportedly form part of the broader agreement, indicating that this is not a symbolic or preliminary memorandum, but a structured long-term programme.

The deal also reflects a deeper structural trend: the gradual emergence of non-Western suppliers as dominant players in politically complex markets. Pakistan, supported by China’s industrial base, is positioning itself as a strategic alternative to traditional Western and Russian arms exporters, offering flexible financing, political neutrality, and adaptable support models.

If successfully implemented, the Libyan JF-17 programme may well become a flagship case study for Pakistan’s future defence exports, and a model for similar acquisitions across Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.

In this context, Libya’s decision represents more than a fighter acquisition. It signals a strategic realignment, a reconstruction of national military capability, and the quiet entry of Pakistan into the heart of North African defence geopolitics.

🇲🇦 Morocco & 🇵🇰 Pakistan in JF-17 Talks ?

Recent defence cooperation developments between Morocco and Pakistan have reignited speculation over a possible Moroccan acquisition of the JF-17 Thunder multirole fighter. While no contract has been signed, multiple defence media outlets and analyst sources now confirm that Rabat is actively exploring the option, marking a potentially significant shift in Moroccan airpower planning.

Rather than signaling a departure from Morocco’s close alignment with Western defence suppliers, this move appears driven by pragmatic operational and strategic considerations.

In January 2026, Morocco and Pakistan formalised a bilateral defence cooperation agreement covering military training, intelligence cooperation, defence industrial collaboration, and joint exercises.

Shortly after the signing, specialist defence journalists and regional analysts reported that combat aircraft discussions formed part of this broader framework, with the JF-17 Block III emerging as the primary focus.

While official statements remain limited, reporting from regional defence correspondents, Pakistani defence sources, and specialist aviation media indicates that Morocco is now among a group of countries engaged in advanced exploratory talks with Pakistan regarding the JF-17 platform.

At this stage, no numbers, timelines, or contractual commitments have been disclosed.

Why Would Morocco Consider the JF-17?

At first glance, Moroccan interest in a Chinese-Pakistani fighter appears counterintuitive. The Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) is heavily invested in Western platforms, particularly F-16C/D Fighting Falcons, F-16 Block 70/72 modernization and NATO-aligned doctrine and interoperability

However, a deeper look suggests a rational strategic logic behind exploring the JF-17.

1. Fleet Mass and Cost Efficiency

The JF-17 offers modern multirole capability at significantly lower acquisition and operating costs than Western fighters. This enables:

• Larger squadron numbers
• Greater sortie generation capacity
• Lower operational strain on high-end platforms

In modern air warfare, fleet size and sustainability increasingly matter as much as individual aircraft performance.

2. Layered Airpower Structure

Rather than replacing F-16s, the JF-17 could serve as:

• A light multirole fighter
• An advanced training platform
• A secondary strike and air policing asset

This layered approach would allow Morocco to preserve F-16 flight hours for high-end missions, while maintaining broad territorial coverage and readiness.

3. Strategic Diversification

Like many mid-sized powers, Morocco is seeking greater autonomy in defence procurement. Introducing a non-Western combat platform:

• Reduces vulnerability to political export restrictions
• Increases diplomatic leverage
• Strengthens strategic independence

This does not represent a geopolitical shift, but rather risk diversification within procurement strategy.

Why the JF-17 Block III?

The Block III variant significantly enhances the aircraft’s appeal, featuring:

• AESA radar
• Modern electronic warfare systems
• Helmet-mounted targeting
• Advanced datalink and sensor fusion
• BVR missile capability

This positions the JF-17 Block III as a credible light multirole fighter, capable of air policing, strike missions, and limited air superiority roles.

Operational and Political Challenges

Despite its advantages, a Moroccan JF-17 acquisition would introduce notable complexities.

• Logistical Integration
• New maintenance ecosystems
• Different supply chains
• Parallel training systems

This would increase operational complexity for a force currently optimized around Western platforms.

Interoperability Constraints

Operating Chinese-Pakistani avionics alongside NATO systems introduces data integration and interoperability challenges, particularly during joint exercises and multinational operations.

Strategic Perception

A JF-17 deal would likely attract attention from Western partners, particularly the United States and France, although Morocco’s consistent procurement of US systems suggests no fundamental shift in strategic alignment.

Likely Scale and Scope

If pursued, a Moroccan JF-17 acquisition would most likely involve:

• Limited numbers
• Secondary mission roles
• Training and fleet expansion purposes

This would mirror procurement strategies adopted by other air forces balancing cost, capability, and political autonomy.

Morocco’s exploration of the JF-17 reflects pragmatic force planning rather than geopolitical realignment.

The move aligns with:

• Expanding fleet mass
• Budget efficiency
• Strategic diversification

Rather than replacing Western combat aircraft, the JF-17 would complement existing F-16 capability, allowing the Royal Moroccan Air Force to preserve its high-end assets while expanding overall operational capacity.

If formalized, this deal would represent a subtle but significant evolution in Moroccan airpower doctrine, emphasizing sustainability, flexibility, and strategic autonomy.

Azerbaijan Acquires Advanced JF-17 Block-III Fighters in Major Military Deal with Pakistan

Azerbaijan has officially signed a contract to acquire JF-17 Block III fighter jets from Pakistan, marking a significant step in strengthening its air force capabilities. The deal, co-developed by Pakistan and China, aims to enhance Azerbaijan's airpower and military readiness, particularly in light of its long-standing tensions with Armenia.

This acquisition follows Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's visit to Pakistan in July, where he was briefed on the combat capabilities of the JF-17 Block III aircraft. The fighter jets were presented to Aliyev during a ceremony at Heydar Aliyev International Airport on September 25, where he inspected the aircraft and was briefed on its technical and tactical characteristics. The event was attended by senior officials, including Azerbaijan’s Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Chairman Air Vice Marshal Hakim Raza.

The JF-17 Block III is a modern multi-role combat aircraft, known for its advanced avionics and versatility in undertaking various combat missions, including air-to-air and air-to-ground operations. Azerbaijan's procurement package includes pilot training and armaments, reflecting a comprehensive approach to upgrading its air force. This purchase is part of Azerbaijan’s broader strategy to diversify its military equipment suppliers, moving away from a reliance on Russian hardware.

The contract, valued at $1.6 billion, reportedly includes an initial delivery of eight jets, with the possibility of follow-on orders for additional aircraft. The introduction of these jets into Azerbaijan's arsenal is seen as a strategic move to bolster its defense capabilities, especially in light of its ongoing military modernization efforts after the Second Karabakh War.

Pakistan, which has long-standing ties with Azerbaijan, was one of the first countries to recognize its independence and has consistently supported Azerbaijan in its conflict with Armenia, including during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War. This defense deal further solidifies the military cooperation between the two nations, strengthening the bond between what are often referred to as "The Three Brothers" — Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Pakistan.

This agreement showcases Azerbaijan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military and Pakistan’s role as a key defense partner. The JF-17 Block III, with its cutting-edge features and capabilities, is expected to significantly boost Azerbaijan's operational readiness in future regional conflicts.

 

The Pakistan Air Force conducts attacks on targets within Iranian territory amid tensions between the two countries

Pakistan Air Force carried out on Jan. 18, an air ofensive, involving the launch of precision airstrikes within Iranian borders just before dawn, "In response to alleged attacks launched from Iran on camps of Sunni militants, who oppose the regime of Iranian ayatollahs, and are located in Pakistan. Pakistan's fighters, including JF-17 Thunder jets, originated from the Masroor airbase and conducted pre-emptive strikes using long-range stand-off missiles. The strikes targeted seven locations within Iranian territory, over 80 kilometers from the border, and were reportedly aimed at high-value terrorist targets linked to the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF).

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) used precision-guided munitions, specifically the GIDS B-REK (Boosted Range Extension Kit), a rocket-boosted glide bomb with a range of 170 kilometers. The JF-17 jets were armed with this range-extension kit, enhancing their off-range-to-surface capabilities. Additionally, Pakistani J-10C jets provided coverage and defensive electronic warfare support.

The operations, named 'Marg Bar Sarmachar,' resulted in multiple terrorist casualties, as confirmed by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Pakistan. Pakistan emphasized its ongoing concerns about terrorist groups allegedly finding safe havens on Iranian territory, providing evidence of their presence and activities.

The longstanding tensions between Iran and Pakistan regarding militant activities on their respective territories are highlighted. Both nations have accused each other of harboring militant groups, including the Jaish al-Adl Sunni separatist group. These groups share the common goal of establishing an independent Baluchistan for ethnic Baluch communities across Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan.

Baluch nationalists have been involved in low-level insurgency in both Pakistan's Baluchistan region and neighboring Iranian provinces, Sistan, and Baluchistan, over the last two decades. The airstrike's reported casualties included three women and four children, none of whom were Iranian citizens, according to Ali Reza Marhamati, a deputy governor of Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province.

Argentina Starts Evaluating US-Origin F-16 Fighting Falcons In Denmark

A top delegation of the Argentine Air Force is reportedly in Denmark to evaluate second-hand F-16s. The South American nation appears to have postponed the technical evaluation of India’s Tejas Light combat aircraft (LCA).

Along with the Danish alternative, Argentina is also considering the Chinese-built JF-17 Thunder and India’s Hindustan Aeronautic Limited (HAL) Tejas aircraft. 

The delegation consisted of experts and technicians that went to the European nation to assess the offered aircraft.

Technical teams and experts are currently researching and reviewing bids from China, India, and Denmark. The F-16 A/B MLU aircraft is proposed to Argentina under the joint efforts of Copenhagen and Washington. 

Previously, there were speculations that Argentina had finalized the Chinese JF-17 for its Air Force during the pandemic. 

Reports claimed that China had sent a few JF-17 jets to Argentina for evaluation. In response to this preemptive news, the United States reportedly pressured Argentina to abandon the deal. 

China would have gained a foothold in America’s backyard had the deal been approved. Since then, it appears Washington has been attempting to sell the Argentine Air Force used Danish fighter jets. 

Meanwhile, India has also aggressively promoted its Tejas light combat aircraft to the South American nation. According to sources familiar with the subject, the top defense authorities from Argentina frequently brought their best pilots along when they visited HAL facilities in India to inspect the LCA Tejas. 

Buenos Aires purportedly asked for another round to test the homegrown fighter plane, but HAL postponed it until sometime in 2023. An Argentine mission led by the Joint Chiefs of Staff Chief of Argentina, General Juan Paleo, visited India’s DefExpo 2022. 

Previously, a high-level delegation from HAL also visited Argentina, demonstrating India’s effort and Argentina’s interest. 

Argentina’s Internal Challenges

Buenos Aires has been struggling to modernize its air force. Following the Falklands War, the United Kingdom put a complete embargo on exports of defense hardware to Argentina. 

eurasiantimes 

Argentina near to select the JF-17 as future Air Force fighter

The bid submitted for the JF-17 weapon system complies with all the requirements established by the Argentine Air Force.

Details were given on the requirements established by the Argentine Air Force (FAA) and the models studied for its future supersonic multi-role fighter in a September report provided by the Chief of Cabinet of Ministers to the Argentine Congress.

Deputies of PRO (opposition party to the current Government) made the following diagnosis before asking questions to the Chief of Cabinet about the future incorporation of a supersonic fighter for the Argentine Air Force (FAA):

«At present, only a handful of A-4AR aircraft are in limited operational conditions. The aforementioned complement is not even a deterrent, much less sufficient to guarantee the integrity of the vast national territory.

Not only are the current capabilities patently insufficient, but they have also become dangerous for aviators, which could result in invaluable human losses of highly qualified military personnel. The situation of the equipment and its capabilities is serious and dangerous, affects the fundamental function of the force and allows the infringement of national sovereignty.»

The requirements established by FAA were:

• Multi-role supersonic fighter.
• In-flight refueling capability compatible with the FAA’s existing refueling aircraft.
• Airborne electronically scanning radar (AESA).
• Tactical Data Link capability.
• Electronic self-defense capability.
• Logistic and temporal potential and projection.
• No components of British origin.
• Availability (supply) for the use of armament.

The models under evaluation are the following:

• JF-17
• F-16
• HAL TEJAS
• MIG-35

The bid submitted for the JF-17 weapon system complies with all the requirements established by the FAA and includes according to the information submitted by the Argentine Ministry of Defense

• Technology transfer to national companies
• Spare parts
• Simulators
• Instruction for personnel
• WS-13 engines of Chinese origin
• Ejector seat of Chinese origin
• Short- and medium-range air-to-air missiles (BVR capability)
• Ninety percent compatibility with JF-17 Block IIIs being manufactured by Pakistan for its own Air Force
• All material is free of restrictions

The JF-17 Thunder is a single-engine multi-role combat aircraft developed jointly by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation of China. The builders say that the JF-17 can be used for multiple roles, including interception, ground attack, anti-ship, and aerial reconnaissance.

58% of the JF-17 airframe, including its front fuselage, wings, and vertical stabiliser, is produced in Pakistan, whereas 42% is produced in China, with the final assembly taking place in Pakistan.

The JF-17 Block III is the latest version of this type with a new electronically scanned radar as well as advanced electronics.

Second-hand Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jets such as those offered by the US so far, could not meet the requirements (they lack AESA radar and they can’t be refueled by FAA KC-130H aircraft).

Meanwhile the US will do everything possible to prevent Argentina from buying Chinese or Russian defense material, so as not to allow the establishment of military relations with its geopolitical opponents in the region.

As already reported, the FAA has been searching for a new supersonic fighter aircraft since when the Dassault Mirage III interceptor fleet was retired in 2015.

It looks like the UK is the biggest hurdle: in the last years in fact Argentina tried to purchase JAS-39 Gripen fighters from Sweden and KAI FA-50 Fighting Eagle jets from South Korea but since these aircraft use British equipment such as ejection seats built by Martin Baker, the UK blocked both the options.

Other potential solutions that have been reported included surplus Spanish Mirage F1s and Tranche 1 Eurofighter Typhoons, Leonardo M-346FA/FTs, CAC J-10s, and Aero L-159s. Even the Sukhoi Su-24 ‘Fencer’.

theaviationgeekclub 

Images show Myanmar Air Force JF-17/FC-1 conducting flight tests in China

Images have emerged on Chinese online forums showing what appears to be one of the first Pakistan Aeronautical Complex/Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (PAC/CAC) JF-17 Thunder/FC-1 Xiaolong multirole combat aircraft on order for the Myanmar Air Force (MAF) conducting test flights in China.
Released around 13 June the images show a single-seat JF-17/FC-1 with the standard camouflage and tail insignia of the MAF being flight-tested at what appears to be CAC's airfield in Chengdu.
janes

JF-17 Block II advances with new refuelling probe

Images revealed on Chinese websites on 23 January indicate the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) FC-1 export fighter - co-developed with Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, which calls it the JF-17 Thunder - is advancing into a 'Block II' development and reportedly testing new weapons.
New images of an FC-1 at the CAC airfield with port number 229 show the first employment of an apparently Chinese-designed aerial refuelling probe: an important feature of the JF-17 Block II version. The probe features a streamlined tube, is located below the aircraft's cockpit canopy frame and may be detachable.
Chinese reports indicate the refuelling probe design will be used by the Block II version of the FC-1/JF-17. However, this is not yet confirmed as the Chinese-designed refuelling probe differs from an initial version first seen on a JF-17 in Pakistan in late 2013. This previous design was entirely cylindrical and its shape and placement just behind the canopy frame indicate there was probably design assistance from Denel Aviation of South Africa. Denel, formerly Atlas Aviation, has previously assisted with outfitting some Pakistani Mirage III fighters with refuelling probes.
Other images that appeared on Chinese websites in late January showed the new refueling probe-modified FC-1 in flight testing on an unknown but likely recent date.
janes

Azerbaijan interested in JF-17

Pakistan Presidenthas said that Azerbaijan and Nigeria are interested in purchasing Pakistani defence products, including the upgraded JF-17 fighter aircraft.
Referring to his recent visit to Azerbaijan, the president said he had discussed ways of enhancing cooperation between the two countries in different areas.
dawn

Nigeria plans to procure three JF-17 fighters

Nigeria plans to acquire three JF-17 Thunder multirole fighter aircraft in 2016.
The procurement plans, which set aside $25 million for the fighters, were reported by Nigerian newspaper Punch. The Nigerian government also plans to acquire ten PAC Super Mushshak basic trainers and two Mi-35M helicopters.
Punch obtained the information on the government's procurement plans from a leaked copy of their 2016 budget, which was presented to the National Assembly by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari in December 2015.
Nigerian defense officials have been reportedly interested in the JF-17 following the IDEAS 2014 exhibition in Pakistan. DefenceWeb reports that during the exhibition a Pakistani defense official stated Nigeria was close to signing a contract for the jets to modernize its air force.
upi.com

The Rise And Fall Of The Argentine Air Force

There was a time when the Fuerza Aérea Argentina (Argentine Air Force) was considered to be one of the best Air Forces in Latin America, if not the world. Created into its own independent entity out of the Argentine Army in 1945, the Argentine Air Force began a massive modernization program which saw them becoming the first country in South America to operate jet aircraft.
This occurred when they took delivery of British made Gloster Meteors in 1947. As well as operating a formidable bomber force that was made up of Avro Lincolns and Lancasters, all of which were also acquired from Britain.
In later years, Argentina went as far as attempting to develop their own indigenous jet aircraft with the aid of former Luftwaffe personnel and other German engineers. A program which resulted in the creation of the FMA IAe 33Pulqui II, making Argentina the first country in Latin America to develop its own jet aircraft and 6th in the world to do so. Even though the Pulqui never entered service (the Government had decided to purchase F-86 Sabers from the U.S. Instead.) , it still showed just what the Argentine Air Force was truly capable of and as the years passed, they continued to build up its fleet by adding newer and more advanced aircraft to its already impressive line up.
But that all changed in the 1980’s, the Falklands War in 1982. Where in an attempt to shift attention away from their troubled economy, the Military Junta which ruled the Latin American country at the time, invaded the British Territories of East and West Falklands.
Thinking that the British government (who had supplied Argentina with a number of military equipment in the years before the invasion) would be unable, if not unwilling, to commit military forces to retake the islands.
The resulting conflict saw the Argentine Air Force sustain heavy losses, losing dozens of fighters, helicopters, cargo aircraft, and even two Canberra Bombers, the majority of which were shot down by Royal Navy and Royal Air Force Harrier jets.
Many had believed to be no match for Argentina’s fleet of supersonic Mirage jet fighters.
By contrast, the Argentine Air Force could only boast of one air to air kill when 2 IA-58 counter-insurgency aircraft shot down a scout helicopter during the battle of Goose Green. Even though both the air force and navy had gained some successes during the conflict, it still was not enough to secure a victory for Argentina as the British were able to retake the islands just after two months since the war began. It also did not help that a number of aircraft and equipment had been captured and shipped back to Britain after the Argentine surrender.
The years following the war saw the Argentine military as a whole and especially the Argentine Air Force , took a sharp decline as the country’s economy worsened and traditional arms suppliers placed arms embargos on their former client.
This saw the Latin American nation unable to procure new assets. After some of these embargoes were lifted in the 1990s and Argentina was able to acquire upgraded A-4s from the United States, the military still continued their steady decline throughout the decade and into the 2000s.
Today, the Argentine Air Force is nothing more than a shadow of its former self. 2015 saw the Argentine Air Force retiring their remaining Mirage and Dagger Fighters, as their airframes had reached a point where they were no longer safe to fly.
Leaving only their remaining fleet of A-4AR “Fighthawks” and IA-63 advanced jet trainers to fill the gap left by these aircraft. Both of which are unsuited for air to air combat and are largely outmatched by aircraft used by their neighbors Chile and Brazil. Even more so, a shortage of spare parts could also see their A-4 fleet being grounded in the near future.
Recent attempts to acquire new aircraft such as the Chinese JF-17, the Swedish Saab Gripen (which is made with British components) and even secondhand Kifr jets from Israel have all failed due to either technological, political, or economic restrictions suffered by the Argentine government.
Problems in the air force also extend to their fleet of C-130 transport aircraft, as their airframes are starting to show their age. These aircraft provide a vital component of the air force, as they are used to not only supply Argentina’s arctic bases, but also assist in supplying their peace keeping contingents in Haiti and Cyprus. Though these aircraft have undergone major upgrades, and Argentina has shown interest in acquiring new aircraft to replace the C-130s, it is unknown whether if they would be able to keep their current fleet flying for long, or even if they will have a transport wing as the economic situation in the country worsens.
It is believed that in the years to come, the Argentine Air Force will cease to exist as a major military component of the Argentine Armed Forces and with an economy in shambles and embargoes still in place due to the Falklands war, it is still unknown whether if the Argentine Air Force will ever fully recover. It is possible that what was once Latin America’s most formidable air forces, maybe flying into the sunset for the last time.
defensionem

Pakistan Looks to Procure F-16s Over Home Grown JF-17s

While praising the abilities of the home made JF-17 Thunder fighter, Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal, Sohail Aman has said that they are in negotiations external link with the US government to procure some of the latest F-16s. The announcement was made as the 16th JF-17 aircraft was unveiled and handed over to the Pakistan Air Force. Manufactured locally in cooperation with China, the JF-17 has been lauded as being able to compete with the best of other lightweight multi-role aircraft, and has been marketed heavily by Pakistan at recent air shows. While production for export seems to be on the increase, one wonders exactly why Islamabad is looking to purchase foreign made fighters ahead of locally produced ones, as well as planning to retire older aircraft simultaneously.
defenseindustrydaily

Sri Lanka May Buy JF-17 Fighters

Following the first export deal for its JF-17 multirole fighter to Myanmar, Pakistan is expected to be pushing hard for a follow-up agreement with Sri Lanka that would mark an important step in further extending its defence co-operation footprint in the Indian Ocean region.
With Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif scheduled to visit Sri Lanka in the first week of January 2016, efforts to secure an agreement in principle for the sale of the JF-17 Thunder are likely to be high on his agenda.
Sharif's upcoming talks in Colombo follow a mid-November visit to Pakistan by Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) commander Air Marshal Gagan Bulathsinhala during which the JF-17 was showcased by the Pakistanis.
The SLAF - which already flies several other Chinese-made aircraft types - is currently looking to upgrade its fighter capabilities. At present these rely on the Kfir, which served as the workhorse of SLAF ground attack operations in the 1983-2009 civil war against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
Currently the JF-17 is flown only by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), with the first squadron of Block 1 aircraft becoming operational in 2010. In late December 2015, PAC rolled out the 16th of a planned total of 50 Block 2 aircraft to complete the PAF's fourth JF-17 squadron in service.
Phasing out its older Dassault Mirage III/5s and Chinese F-7Ps fighters, the PAF reportedly plans to induct at least 250 JF-17s. By contrast, China's People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) does not fly the JF-17.
janes

JF-17 Thunder gets order at Dubai Air Show

The JF-17 Thunder, a fourth-generation fighter jet co-developed by China and Pakistan, has bagged its first sale at the Dubai Air Show.
According to Chinese media reports, the aircraft's developers have already signed a contract with an anonymous buyer as they look forward to more orders in the future.
khaleejtimes

Pakistan confirms Su-35 talks

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has discussed buying Su-35 'Flanker-E' fighter aircraft from Russia in potentially the largest defence deal between the two countries, but a final decision is yet to be made.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov had said talks were underway for an unspecified number of Su-35s, which follow a recent agreement to provide Mi-35M 'Hind E' attack helicopters to Islamabad.
While the official said "it's too early to say if a deal will conclude and the terms", the fact that discussions have taken place shows Russia's willingness to sell advanced hardware with Pakistan despite Moscow's longstanding ties with India.
The official said Pakistan's interest in the Su-35 was driven by the PAF's need for a twin-engine fighter "that can fly for a longer range than the JF-17 and penetrate more deeply into the enemy's territory". The PAF flies a mixed fleet of Lockheed Martin F-16s, Dassault Mirage-5s, Chinese-manufactured F-7s, and the JF-17 Thunder, which is jointly produced by China and Pakistan.
Pakistan is in discussions with China to buy 30 to 40 FC-31s - the export version of China's J-31 fifth-generation platform, because it is fitted with two RD-93 Russian Klimov engines, which also powers the JF-17. PAF in the past also considered the purchase of up to 40 Chengdu J-10 fighters.
janes

Sri Lanka revealed as first foreign buyer of JF-17

Sri Lanka will become the first foreign country to acquire the JF-17 Thunder.
The order will be for around 18-24 aircraft.
The Pakistan Air Force announced that they will begin delivery of the JF-17 to Sri Lanka from 2017.
wantchinatimes

JF-17 wins first export order for an undisclosed Asian Country

The Chengdu/Pakistan Aeronautical Complex JF-17 Thunder fighter has secured its first confirmed export deal.
“A contract has been signed with an Asian country,” says the Pakistan air force officer who leads sales and marketing efforts for the type.
Citing client sensitivities, he declined to specify the customer and the number of aircraft it will obtain. Deliveries will start in 2017.
The aircraft is making its flying debut at this year’s air show. Pakistan’s air force has brought three examples this year. One will appear on the static display, one will appear in the flying display, and the third will serve as a backup.
Pakistan has received 54 examples. The first 50 were originally delivered in a Block I configuration, and these are in the process of being updated to a Block II standard.
An additional 46 aircraft will be delivered in the Block II configuration. A subsequent 50 aircraft, which will push Pakistan’s fleet to 150 examples, will have a Block III configuration. These will all be delivered by the end of 2018.
A two-seat variant is also planned, which will serve mainly as a trainer. Pakistan produces 58% of the airframe and China 42%.

Pakistan Will Show Its JF-17s in Paris Air Show

At least three Pakistan Air Force JF-17, departed for Paris today, to participate in the upcoming Paris Air Show 2015.
One JF-17 fighter aircraft will perform in the flying display and another will be on static display throughout the Air Show.
The JF-17 Thunder has already participated in various air shows around the world including Farnborough Air Show (UK), Zhuhai Air Show (China), Turkish Air Show (Turkey) and Dubai Air Show (UAE).
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Saab not selling Gripens to Argentina

A proposed sale of 24 Saab Gripen E/F combat aircraft to Argentina is highly unlikely to happen, a senior company representative told reporters on 27 April.
"[A Gripen sale to Argentina] is not something that we are involved in, and isn't something that we would consider at present. Maybe in the future, if relations with the UK were to improve it could happen, or [if relations don't improve] then perhaps we could source some [UK-made] components from elsewhere, but right now no," representative said.
Nilsson referenced the United Kingdom as the British government has indicated that it would veto any Gripen E sale to Argentina, which disputes its sovereignty of the Falkland Islands (Malvinas). The United Kingdom will manufacturer many of the aircraft's flight and mission systems.
Prior to Saab's most recent statement on the issue, Brazilian government officials had said that they did not think that the United Kingdom would veto any such sale to Argentina (Brazil's interest in the sale lies in the fact that the Argentine aircraft would likely be sourced from its licenced production facility that is being set up to partially satisfy the Brazilian Air Force's order for 36 aircraft).
It is likely that Argentina will not be able to wait this long for a replacement fighter anyhow, and while this might make the country an attractive prospect for the Gripen C/D, which Saab is to continue marketing and developing in parallel to the E/F, the Swedish manufacturer is unlikely to want to upset such an important industrial partner as the United Kingdom in offering even this aircraft.
The Gripen E is one of a number of types that have been linked with a possible Argentine sale over recent months. Others include surplus Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons from the United States, the Israel Aerospace Industries Kfir, CAC FC-1 (JF-17 Thunder), and J-10 fighters from China as well as Sukhoi Su-24 'Fencer' aircraft leased from Russia. While some commentators have dismissed the Su-24 proposal as a Latin American hoax, it surfaced again only a few days ago during a meeting between Russian president Vladimir Putin and Argentine president Cristina Fernández de Kirchner. Of all these options though, the Chinese FC-1 proposal appears to be the frontrunner at this stage.
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