Chinese Media Claims J-10CE Dominated Eurofighter Typhoon During Qatar Air Exercises

 

Chinese state media and several defense-focused accounts close to Beijing have widely promoted the results of recent joint air exercises held in Qatar, claiming that the Chengdu J-10CE achieved a decisive advantage over the Eurofighter Typhoon during simulated air combat scenarios.

According to the narrative circulating in Chinese media, Pakistani-operated J-10CE fighters scored a striking “9-0” result against Qatari Eurofighter Typhoons during the exercise known as “Zilzal-II”, which reportedly took place earlier this year. Chinese outlets describe the outcome as evidence of the growing technological maturity of China’s combat aviation industry and proof that Chinese fighters are now fully capable of competing with leading Western aircraft.

The exercises involved the Pakistan Air Force flying export-version J-10CE fighters, while Qatar deployed its advanced Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 3 fleet. According to the reports, the Chinese-built aircraft prevailed in both beyond-visual-range engagements and close-range dogfights, with particular emphasis placed on the performance of its radar, avionics, and long-range PL-15 air-to-air missile.

However, despite the headlines, very little verifiable information has been released publicly. No official telemetry, engagement parameters, mission profiles, weapons configurations, or pilot experience details have been disclosed. As with most air combat exercises, the final results can depend heavily on rules of engagement, operational restrictions, simulated weapon limitations, and training objectives.

For that reason, many analysts view the “9-0” narrative with caution. The way the story has been presented — often framed as a “humiliation” of European airpower — strongly suggests a major propaganda and marketing component designed to support China’s growing ambitions in the international defense export market.

Still, the episode highlights a broader reality that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore: Chinese combat aviation has advanced rapidly over the last decade. The Chengdu J-10CE is far from a low-end platform. It features modern AESA radar technology, advanced electronic warfare systems, and long-range missile capabilities that place it firmly within the category of highly capable 4.5-generation fighters.

The real takeaway may therefore not be that the Eurofighter Typhoon has suddenly become obsolete, but rather that China is now operating at a technological level much closer to Western standards than many observers previously assumed. Aircraft such as the J-10C, J-16, and J-20 increasingly demonstrate that Beijing’s aerospace industry is no longer playing a secondary role in global military aviation.

There is also a clear commercial dimension behind the publicity surrounding the exercise. China is actively trying to expand exports of the Chengdu J-10CE in markets traditionally dominated by Western manufacturers such as Lockheed Martin, Dassault Aviation, BAE Systems, and the wider Airbus consortium.

In that context, portraying the J-10CE as capable of defeating one of Europe’s premier fighters serves as a powerful strategic and marketing message — regardless of how representative the exercise itself may actually have been.

United States Concerned as KAAN Attracts Interest From Saudi Arabia and Beyond

Turkey’s KAAN fifth-generation fighter program is beginning to attract attention well beyond its original national scope, prompting growing discussion in Washington and among allied capitals. According to defense-focused reporting and analyst commentary, the United States is increasingly attentive to the possibility that advanced non-U.S. fighters could find customers in regions traditionally aligned with American systems.

Part of this attention stems from reported interest in KAAN from Saudi Arabia, which would represent a significant diversification away from long-standing U.S. fighter dependence. While no formal negotiations have been confirmed, such a move would carry implications for export controls, interoperability, and regional airpower balances.

Beyond the Gulf, rumors have also pointed to exploratory interest from Spain and Pakistan. In Spain’s case, speculation is often linked to uncertainty surrounding long-term combat aviation plans and the evolving timeline of European next-generation programs. Pakistan, meanwhile, is frequently cited as a potential partner due to its history of pursuing alternative fighter suppliers outside Western frameworks.

At this stage, none of these countries have confirmed official talks or procurement intentions. However, the breadth of speculation alone highlights KAAN’s strategic significance: a domestically developed, NATO-country fifth-generation fighter that could offer partners advanced capabilities without full reliance on U.S.-controlled programs.

Whether these rumors translate into concrete partnerships remains to be seen. What is clear is that KAAN is no longer viewed solely as a national project, but increasingly as a platform with global strategic implications—and that alone is enough to keep policymakers and analysts watching closely.

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.

Pakistan announces its intention to acquire the J-31/FC-31 “Gyrfalcon,” China’s upcoming fifth-generation stealth fighter jet.

The Chief of the Pakistan Air Force has disclosed the force's intention to acquire the Chinese fifth-generation fighter jet J-31/FC-31 "Gyrfalcon" in the near future.

During a ceremony at an airbase, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Sidhu, head of the Pakistan Air Force, provided an overview of the latest additions to the PAF's arsenal, including Chinese 4.5-generation J-10C fighters, C-130H military transport aircraft, as well as Airbus-319, Boeing 737, Piper M-600 transport planes, and Beechcraft King Air 350i aircraft. The Air Chief also highlighted recent additions of modern radars, unmanned aerial systems such as Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci (of Turkish origin), and indigenous Shahpar-II drones, along with loitering munitions, swarm drones, and long-range vectors, significantly bolstering the country's air defense capabilities.

The Pakistan Air Force became the first export customer for the J-10C "Vigorous Dragon" and now seeks to become the first foreign operator of the FC-31 "Gyrfalcon" (export designation for the J-35 for the Chinese Navy), a fifth-generation stealth fighter aiming to compete in capabilities with the American F-35.

As per the PAF chief's statements, "the groundwork has already been laid for the acquisition of the stealth combat aircraft J-31."

Similar to how the induction of the J-10C was Pakistan's response to the arrival of the Dassault Rafale in the Indian Air Force (IAF), the PAF aims to continue maintaining technological balance with its adversary, which is developing its own fifth-generation fighter jet program, by adopting the Chinese FC-31.

The recent announcement comes as somewhat surprising, considering that in August 2023, it was announced that Pakistan was close to finalizing an agreement to participate in the development of the Turkish fifth-generation fighter KAAN, which was expected to make its maiden flight on December 27 but was ultimately postponed to an undefined date.

While the longstanding strategic partnership between Beijing and Islamabad is robust, enabling Pakistan to access the latest Chinese military export technology ahead of others, it remains challenging to believe that the FC-31 will bear the PAF insignia in the "near future," given that the aircraft is not yet in production, nor is the J-35, a crucial future component of the air wing for the conventional take-off and landing aircraft carrier 'Fujian'.

NEWS 2022 March, 12

 Pakistan inducts J-10 'The Dragon from the East' into service

Pakistan on Friday formally inducted the multirole J-10C fighter jets, acquired from China, into its air force to improve the country's combat capabilities

Prime Minister Imran Khan addressed a ceremony held at Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Base Minhas Kamra in Attock district of Punjab to induct the new jets.

At the induction ceremony, the Pakistan Air Force described the J-10C as the ‘Dragon from the East’. The Pakistan Air Force signed an agreement with China to buy the J-10C in June last year. It claimed the aircraft was “omni-role” and had “matchless manoeuvrability” and advanced electronics and weapons.

While claims of Pakistan buying the J-10 or a variant of the fighter have circulated for over a decade, an acquisition was only confirmed late last year. In late December, Pakistan's Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed had announced the PAF would be inducting 25 J-10C fighters as a response to India's induction of the Rafale jets.

theweek

Aircraft additions to US Navy and Marines with new federal bill spending package

The new spending bill includes $900 million for a dozen Super Hornets. It also nixes $10 million the Navy had requested to shut down the production line.

The bill includes $570 million for two CH-53K King Stallion and four MV-22 Ospreys for the Marines.

The bill also has $40 million for two additional MQ-9A Reaper to provide the Marines with greater intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability while spread across greater distances.

The Navy would get $323 million for two additional MQ-4 Triton UAVs, $117.8 million for four F-35B Joint Strike Fighter engines, as well as $50 million to accelerate setup of a maintenance depot for F-35Bs.

defensenews

Pakistan signs for T129 attack helos

Pakistan has formally signed for 30 TAI T129 attack helicopters from Turkey, it was disclosed on 24 May.
The confirmation of the anticipated sale to Pakistan was made in the political manifesto that Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Parti) has released ahead of the general election scheduled for June. The manifesto states that “a very short while ago a contract for the sale of 30 attack helicopters was signed with Pakistan”.
Pakistan is known to have evaluated the Turkish-built version of the AgustaWestland A129 Mangusta as part of an ongoing effort to procure a new attack helicopter for the country’s army. With the Pakistan Army having already ordered 12 US-built Bell AH-1Z Vipers, it had since 2014 been trialling the Chinese-built Z-10 and since 2016 the T129.
Gareth Jennings, London - IHS Jane's Defence Weekly

Russia delivers four Mi-35M helos to Pakistan

Russia has completed delivery of four Mil Mi-35M 'Hind E' attack helicopters to the Pakistan Army Aviation Corps (PAAC), Brigadier General Waheed Mumtaz, spokesperson for the Defence Export Promotion Organization of Pakistan, was quoted by Russian news agency RIA Novosti as saying on 25 August.
"The contract was signed, we received all four [helicopters], and now we get new equipment," Brig Gen Mumtaz told reporters at this year’s Army-2017 defence exhibition, which took place from 22-27 August near Moscow.
The spokesperson said that Pakistani pilots are now becoming acquainted with the new equipment. Based on the PAAC’s experience with the helicopters, Islamabad will now decide whether to place an order for additional helicopters as well as for other Russian military equipment and platforms, he was quoted as saying.
Pakistan and Russia had agreed to the Mi-35M deal in August 2015 in a move that was considered a breakthrough between the two countries. Pakistan's minister for defence production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, was quoted by local media last December as saying that Islamabad paid a total of USD153 million for the four helicopters.
Mindful of Indian concerns, Moscow had for years opted against engaging in any military co-operation with Pakistan.
However, in 2014 Russia decided to lift its self-imposed arms embargo against the South Asian country.
janes

Nigeria Takes Delivery of Pakistani-made Super Mushshak Trainer Aircraft

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken delivery of the first four out of 10 MFI-17 Super Mushshak primary trainer aircraft ordered from the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC), five months after the two parties signed a supply and delivery agreement.
They were commissioned into service four days after delivery to Kaduna on Dec. 1. According to the supply contract signed in June this year, the PAC would also provide technical training to the NAF teams charged with operating and maintaining the aircraft.
Four more on-loan aircraft would be delivered to Nigeria in early 2017. By mid-2017, the loaned aircraft would be replaced with new assets, which are already under assembly.
The four have since been commissioned into service at the 301 Flight Training School in Abuja, replacing an aging fleet of Dana Air Beetle trainer variants which has been in service since 1995.
Apart from Nigeria, four Super Mushshak trainers are in service with the Pakistani Air Force. Global interest in the Super Mushshak soared in 2016 with Qatar signing a deal for the supply of eight in May.
Late in November, the Turkish Air Force signed a memorandum of understanding that set the groundwork for acquisition of up to 52 trainers. Iran, Oman, Saudi Arabia and South Africa are also reported to be interested in acquiring the aircraft.
A derivative of the Mushshak aircraft, the Super Mushshak is a version of the Saab MF-17 Supporter, which is produced in Pakistan under license from Sweden.
The latest version is powered by a 260 horsepower Textron Lycoming IO-540 V4A5 engine. It features a US-designed glass cockpit as well as environmental controls.
According to Abubakar, Nigeria will soon take delivery of four new, Russian-made Mi-35N attack helicopters from Russia and three JF-17 Thunder aircraft from Pakistan.
The West African country has also ordered at least three ex-Brazilian Air Force Super Tucano light-attack aircraft. A parallel aircraft-refurbishment program has led to the restoration and recommissioning of helicopters, which include three Mi-24V and Mi-35P attack variants, two EC-135s, two AugustaWestland A109s, and one Super Puma.
A single Beechcraft light aircraft, one Falcon jet, one Diamond DA-42 and two Dornier DO-228 maritime surveillance planes have also been restored and returned to service.
defensenews

TAI in Talks to Upgrade Pakistani F-16s

Tusas Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) is negotiating with Pakistan to upgrade 74 Pakistani Air Force (PAF) F-16 fighters, company officials said.
“The negotiations are being held through our Pakistani representative,” a TAI official said. “We are hopeful about an eventual deal in view of our excellent relations with PAF.”
If finalized the deal will involve upgrades on a batch of 74 PAF F-16 aircraft, including 14 fighters Pakistan will acquire from Jordan.
defensenews

US Clears Sale of F-16 to Pakistan

The U.S. State Department has approved the sale of six F-16Ds and two F-16C Block 52 fighters to Pakistan. The deal, inclusive of associative equipment and logistic support, is estimated to cost $699.04 million.
dsca

Lawmaker Blocks Deal to Sell F-16s to Pakistan

A senior Republican senator is blocking the Obama administration’s subsidized sale of as many as eight new F-16 jet fighters to Pakistan because of Islamabad’s relationship with a militant group known for targeting U.S.-trained security forces in neighboring Afghanistan.
Sen. Bob Corker (R., Tenn.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told Secretary of State John Kerry in a letter that he couldn’t allow the Obama administration to use taxpayer funds to support the sale of the jets.
He cited attacks by the group known as the Haqqani network, saying the government in Islamabad continues to provide haven to its leaders.
wsj.com

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

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