The latest version of the Pakistan JF-17 Thunderbolt aircraft
The latest version of Pakistan's JF-17 Thunderbolt aircraft is likely to be equipped with the most advanced air-to-air missiles in China's arsenal. So far, only the Chinese J-20 "Veyron" carries this missile. On April 27, an image circulating on the Internet showing a prototype of the JF-10E short-range air-to-air missile equipped with a PL-10E short-range air-to-air missile mounted on two wingtips (number 3001). This image was reportedly taken in March 2021.
Modernization program of the JF-17 Thunderbolt
This is part of a major modernization program for the JF-17 Thunderbolt (also known as the FC-1 Tiger in China). This is a single-engine, fourth-generation multirole fighter designed to replace the aging A-5C, F-7P/PG, Mirage III and Mirage V fighters in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). The new model of the fighter, called the Block-III, has a number of upgrades over its predecessor, including an AESA radar and an impressive arsenal of air-to-air missiles.
Features of the PL-10E missile
The PL-10E is reported as the most advanced air-to-air missile in its category and was developed specifically for China's fifth-generation J-20 fighter. This missile is in the same class as the AIM-9X Sidewinder and AIM-132 ASRAAM. It has a high line of sight (HOBS) capability of 90°. When paired with a helmet-mounted display and targeting (HMDS) system, it can significantly reduce the operator's efforts to aim at an air target, allowing him to acquire a lock and launch the missile without turning the entire airframe to the target.
Outstanding features of the infrared imaging seeker
The missile's infrared imaging seeker is another major highlight, since it is highly resistant to infrared interference and, according to the developers, can focus very precisely on the aircraft's infrared signature. This will also be the first missile of this type to be integrated with a Pakistani Air Force platform.
PL-10E enhancements to JF-17 Block III
With the PL-10E, the JF-17 Block III will be a huge improvement in air combat capabilities and will have an advantage over its competitors – especially the Indian Air Force fighters. Notably, on the day images of the JF-17 surfaced on social media, the Indian Air Force successfully integrated the Python-5 air-to-air missile with its indigenous fighter, the LCA Tejas.
Deepening of China-Pakistan military cooperation
The introduction of this missile has further deepened military cooperation between China and Pakistan. The Pakistan Air Force will have another reliable fighter that complements the American F-16 Falcon. However, since U.S. aircraft use Link-16 datalinks and Pakistan uses Link-17, such services will have to be managed without real-time datalinks.