When did Turkey end up buying JF-17s from Pakistan?

According to an assessment or news article published yesterday on TGRT News, Turkey will turn to the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, a joint China-Pakistan production, as an alternative to the Eurofighter fighter jet ( https://www.tgrthaber.com.tr/gundem/turkiye-dugumu-cozuyor-eurofighterin-alternatifi-jf-17-thunderin-avci-ozellikleri-2918387). 

Previously, I had come across some people on social media sharing their assessments in this direction, but I had ignored them. Now, I couldn't help but ask the question, "What the hell is going on?" Let's first try to understand what the JF-17 is, and then I would like to convey our opinions to the decision-makers here, even if it is a small input.

Why Pakistan Produced JF-17 with the Chinese?

Pakistan is a country that attaches importance to resource diversity in its Air Force. Before the JF-17s, which it jointly produced with the Chinese, entered its inventory, Pakistan had a force structure consisting of French Dassault-made Mirage III and Mirage 5, Chinese-made Nanchang A-5 bombers and Chengdu J-7 Air Defense aircraft, and American-made multi-role F-16 aircraft. Of these, only the F-16 stood out as a modern fighter jet for its time. The US refusal to sell additional F-16s, despite Pakistan's strong desire to do so, triggered the process of producing a similar fourth-generation fighter jet indigenously in Pakistan with the support of China. In a sense, Pakistan was forced or compelled to do so.

The JF-17 light single-engine fourth-generation fighter program, jointly carried out by China's Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group and the Pakistan Aviation Complex, eventually became the backbone of the Pakistan Air Force's fighter modernization program. During tensions in the Kashmir region, Pakistani pilots using the JF-17 Thunder fighter managed to shoot down one Indian MIG-21 and one SU-30 fighter. In the process, JF-17s have become Pakistan's national pride and the apple of the Air Force's eye. 

Pakistan Aerospace Complex (PAC) is located in Kamra. The project for the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, which is planned to be produced there, was officially launched in early 2000 as a joint China-Pakistan project. In addition to being a light/low-cost fighter jet, the JF-17 was designed to meet the criteria of being "at least 70% of the F-16" and "half the price of the F-16". The aircraft's operational concept and conceptual design requirements were based on the capabilities of the F-16. The dimensions of the aircraft were to be almost identical to the F-16. Instead of reaching the top version of the project in the first production run, a phased production system based on a 'block' approach similar to the F-16 was adopted.

In terms of cost, the JF-17 is expected to have a price tag of approximately $15 million for the Block I version, $20 million for the Block II version and $25 million for the Block III version. Apart from possible overseas sales, a total of 250 JF-17s are planned to be produced for Pakistan. Currently, Pakistan Aerospace Industries has reached a capacity to produce 25 JF-17s per year.

JF-17 Thunder Block I 

Pakistan deemed it sufficient for the Block I aircraft to ensure airframe, engine and radar compatibility, to focus on aerodynamic fuselage design, to plan the aircraft for operational missions with sufficient avionics systems, and to use some weapons and ammunition effectively. In order to produce the Block I aircraft more cheaply, most of the systems of the Chinese J-10 fighter jet were adapted for the JF-17. The Block I version developed in this context made its first test flight in 2003. Since 2010, it has been put into service.

The Russian Klimov-made RD-93 turbofan engine, which is also used in the MIG-29 aircraft, was used as the engine in the JF-17s. Compared to the MIG-29 version, the JF-17 engine has a higher power output and a lower fuel consumption rate. To reduce the RD-33's smoke emission, the aircraft's engine intakes were enlarged. This modification had the added benefit of increasing the efficiency of the air entering the engine when the aircraft was flying at supersonic speeds. This air intake design partially brought the aircraft closer to low visibility.

The airframe endurance life of the aircraft was requested to be "4,000 hours or 25 years". In this context, mainly aluminum alloy was used in the fuselage. High-strength steel and titanium alloys were used in some special and critical areas. A criterion of 1,200 hours was set for the aircraft's first factory-level maintenance (FASBAT, overhaul). The stability and maneuverability of the aircraft were increased by making changes at the junction of the front parts of the wing with the fuselage. It was aimed to perform high angle of attack maneuvers more effectively. In the tail section, the vertical stabilization was enlarged and the necessary slots for electronic warfare equipment were created. Avionic products of Western countries were used in the aircraft. In addition, an integrated fly-by-wire flight control system that allows the use of F-16-like flaperons, a day/night precision air-to-ground attack system, an advanced KLJ-7 pulse doppler radar that supports the use of missiles in the beyond-line-of-sight range, and a Martin-Baker jump seat were also adapted to the aircraft. This radar, which can track a total of 40 targets simultaneously, is equipped with the capability to track 10 targets with a radar cross section (RCS) larger than 5 m² in the track-while-scan (TWS) mode in the beyond-line-of-sight range, and to fire beyond-line-of-sight air-to-air missiles at two targets simultaneously. JF-17 aircraft have also been equipped with single-point aerial refueling capability.

JF-17s can carry up to 3 629 kilograms (8 000 pounds) of ammunition and weapons in a total of 7 load stations, two on the wingtips, four under the wings and one under the fuselage. Chinese-made PL-5E II and SD-10 air-to-air missiles and the C-802K naval target attack missile have also become standard ammunition for the aircraft. In addition, the Brazilian-made anti-radiation missile MAR-1 was also integrated. The aircraft is armed with a 23 mm GSh-23-2 double barrel cannon. The 30 mm GSh-30-2 cannon can also be mounted on demand.

The cockpit of the aircraft is equipped with an electronic flight instrument system (EFIS) and a head-up display (HUD) with a 25-degree viewing angle. All flight information and tactical picture can be accessed with three multi-function displays (MFD), each 8x12 inches in size, integrated with the EFIS. In addition to controlling the flight control and air conditioning systems, all system information such as engine, fuel, electricity and hydraulics are transferred to the pilot in an integrated structure. The aircraft is equipped with a Chinese-made helmet mounted sights/display (HMS/D). According to the Chinese, this HMS/D system is much better than the system used on the Russian Su-27 Flanker aircraft.

The aircraft is equipped with a defensive aids system (DAS), a radar warning receiver (RWR) compatible with the DAS, and a missile approach warning system (MAW) that provides 360-degree coverage with optical sensors in the tail.

JF-17 Thunder Block II 

With the JF-17 Block II, it was aimed to include a fighter aircraft on the scale of the F-16C/D Block 30/40 in the Pakistan Air Force inventory. Pakistan and China commissioned the JF-17B production line in 2016. A total of 26 twin-seat JF-17B Block II trainer versions were also produced.

The engines of the Block IIs have been upgraded to reach speeds of Mach 1.8. The operational radius was increased to over 750 miles. As part of weight reduction, composite materials were used at appropriate points on the fuselage. The Infra-red Search and Track (IRST) system and the Chinese-made BM/KG300G self-protection and electronic jamming pod, as well as heat-seeking PL-5EII, PL-9C, Brazilian-made MAA-1 Piranha and American-made AIM-9L/M missiles were also integrated. In addition, ASELSAN's ASELPOD targeting pod became the standard equipment of the aircraft. This paved the way for the use of laser guided bombs (LGB) and other precision guided munitions in air-to-ground missions. 

JF-17 Thunder Block III 

Aircraft in this series are Multi-Role. In the first phase, it is aimed to produce a total of 62 JF-17 Block III versions and to deliver all of them to the Pakistan Air Force by 2024. With future modernizations, all JF-17s are expected to be upgraded to the Block III level. 

In this block, composites were used in the air intake to optimize the air entering the engine and increase performance. The Russian-made RD-33MKM engine was switched to. The Chinese WS-13E was also considered. Thus, it was aimed to increase the aircraft's displacement to 22 450 pounds. With this engine, it was calculated that the aircraft could reach Mach 2+ cruise speed.

The aircraft was made capable of operating in a network-centric operational environment with advanced data connectivity. The final operational radius was 840 NM and the service ceiling was 55,500 feet. The HUD and more advanced missile warning system used in the J-20 aircraft were used. The Chinese LKF601E (KLJ-7A) is equipped with Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which can lock on to 30 targets simultaneously. The integration of the Chinese-made PL-15 air-to-air missile with beyond-line-of-sight range was completed. Thus, with this missile, which has a speed of over Mach 4, the Pakistan Air Force gained the ability to engage airborne targets at a range of 150 NM+ (more than twice the range of AIM 120 missiles). Pakistan continues its efforts to purchase IRIS-T-like air-to-air missiles for this aircraft. Chinese LS-6 'Thunderstone' GPS-guided bombs, YJ-12 supersonic and YJ-83 subsonic missiles, C-803 and CM-400AKG missiles can be launched by JF-17s to engage surface targets.

Assessment

The JF-17 Thunder Fighter is a cost-effective fighter aircraft. Rather than producing a perfect fighter jet, Pakistan's priority was to meet its fighter jet needs with national capabilities. State-of-the-art Chinese-made avionics, electronic warfare, radar and missiles were used in these aircraft. The JF-17's modern avionics and AESA radar are considered a win for the Pakistan Air Force. The PL-15, a more advanced air-to-air missile than the AMRAAM, increases the effectiveness of the JF-17s beyond visibility. 

JF-17 Block IIIs are considered in the 3.5+ class. On the other hand, capabilities such as AESA radar, beyond-line-of-sight missile launch capability, IRST, advanced avionics, etc. make the JF-17 an aircraft above its class. The JF-17, which has a very high maneuverability, is most similar to the F-16. The JF-17, whose tail structure and nose are similar to the F-16, has air intakes on the sides, ensuring the continuity of the air to the engine. This makes it possible for the engine to generate power at higher efficiency. In addition, its winglets make these aircraft more maneuverable in dogfights than the F-16. In addition, the JF-17s have a total of 7 external load stations and can carry 8,000 pounds of cargo, while the F-16s can carry up to 17,000 pounds of fuel/ammunition in 9 external stations. The main reason for this enormous difference is the F-16's F110 engine, which can carry over 30,000 pounds, and its strong airframe design.

JF-17 Block III aircraft are said to cost between $35-40 million. Accordingly, 4 Block IIIs can be purchased for the price of 1 F-16V. Although the JF-17 is not as advanced as the F-16 Viper, Typhoon T4 or Rafale FR3/4, it has a range of capabilities close to these aircraft. This 'cheap' aircraft could be a good choice for countries looking for a cost-effective solution. Of course, the capabilities of a JF-17 Block III against the latest versions of the Rafale, Typhoon or F-16 may not be enough, but no one can argue that these advanced fighters can win an air battle with absolute victory against two JF-17s with the appropriate weapons load. In some cases, quantity (numerical superiority) may trump quality. 

The JF-17 is a fighter aircraft that provides an added value of $70 million with a price tag of $35 million. Beyond this, these fighter jets can only compete with fighter jets costing $100-120 million in terms of maneuver, performance, radar, weapons and ammunition, naturally, only with the help of the 'luck' factor on the battlefield. 

Which Countries Use the JF-17?

Pakistan uses JF-17s, which have relatively superior capabilities and are jointly produced with China, and considers this aircraft as a part of its national pride. Instead of buying a ready-made fighter jet, Pakistan managed to produce this aircraft domestically with the support of China. Having downed 2 Indian fighter jets (1 x Mig 21, 1 x Su-30MKI), the JF-17 proved to be a 'good fighter' in operational terms.

Nigeria and Myanmar have purchased 16 JF-17s each. Other countries are interested in this aircraft. Iraq is almost certain to buy at least 12. Egypt is considering JF-17 procurement as part of expanded defense cooperation with Pakistan. Azerbaijan has said for years that it wants the JF-17, while Bolivia and Argentina are also planning to acquire the JF-17. Meanwhile, Pakistan is also trying to sell the aircraft to Malaysia, Morocco, Qatar, Sudan and Sri Lanka.

Does Turkey Need to Buy JF-17 from Pakistan?

Turkey's search for fighter jets to add to its approximately 230 F-16 fighters continues. I see the choice of fighter jets for the Turkish Air Force as an important decision that has a high impact on the corporate culture and leads to changes in the notion of operations. Turkey has been a country that has been using French, British, Italian, Polish and American-made aircraft since 1911. Since 1952, when we joined NATO, the Turkish Air Force has not acquired fighter jets of any country other than American-made fighter jets. This situation causes Turkey, which has not been able to diversify its sources even among Western countries, to experience a politically and militarily troublesome process today.

Turkey needs to diversify its sources for the fighter jets to be used in its Air Force without delay. Although this will certainly open the door to a number of problems such as maintenance and sustainment, training and logistical supportability, I believe that Turkey, like many other countries such as Greece, Egypt, India, UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, etc., which have various aircraft types built by different countries in their inventories at the same time, will be able to successfully manage the process of resource diversification.

The tangle of bilateral relations between Turkey and Western countries, which has emerged as a result of today's conditions, inevitably forces Turkey to diversify its sources. On the other hand, the purchase of 40 Typhoons is currently blocked by Germany. The future of the F-16V package remains uncertain. As far as I know, Turkey has no contact with the French for the purchase of Rafale, but I believe that there is a need to establish contact with this country without prejudice. I believe that our deteriorating relations with Sweden can be moved to a win-win dimension with NATO membership and JAS-39E negotiations.

If no progress can be made with these countries, it may be necessary to turn to Russian and/or Chinese aircraft. However, given what happened after the S-400 purchase, I am concerned that if we continue to wear the NATO hat, turning to Russian and Chinese aircraft may expose us to new challenges in defense and foreign policy. 

On the other hand, if we somehow decide to purchase fighter jets from Russia or China, the Russian Su-35s, the Chinese J-10C or J-16D, which are fourth generation aircraft, could be considered. Meanwhile, considering that the MMU Kaan will make its maiden flight on December 27, I believe that fifth-generation aircraft such as the Su-57 (F-22 equivalent) and/or Su-75 (F-35 equivalent) and the Chinese J-20, which is equivalent to the F-22, should be avoided. 

At this point, only as a last resort, if Pakistan agrees to participate in the MMU Kaan program as a 'risk-sharing partner', perhaps the purchase of 40-80 JF-17s could be considered as a strategic option. As I said, this option can only be considered as a last resort. On the other hand, without prejudice to our strategic partnership relations with brotherly Pakistan, we should not forget that a possible decision to purchase JF-17s would relegate the Turkish Air Force from the first league.

Of course, as a former fighter pilot, my heart and mind are not in favor of this! And it cannot be!