The much anticipated JF-17 block 3, a 4+ generation aircraft is resurfaced. And the first images of the new aircraft are revealed on December 28. Although, there are no official details about the features of the new fighter jet, but there are a number of changes that are noticeable in the latest variant of JF-17. This is the 4th variant of the aircraft.
As it seems, the new JF-17 comes with enhanced capabilities and munitions. Looking from the pictures, a much larger and rounder Heads Up Display (HUD) is visible. As evidently, there are two new sensors are visible on the airframe, one of which is rumored to be Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS).
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The most significant change that has been made to the aircraft is its radar, replacing the old passive radar system, the new Active Electronically Scanned Array radar will be integrated in new prototype.
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The most noticeable change appears to be its longer nose, which is set to accommodate the new AESA radar. The new AESA radar have not only much greater range but also capable of handling the long range air to air missiles (AAM), which is likely to be Chinese PL-15, which would outrange currently any weapon in Indian inventory.
The AAM is the backbone weapon in order to achieve air superiority and in modern Beyond Visual Range (BVR) warfare. Only AESA radar can guide such kind of long range missiles. With its 200 km range it will outrange the MICA and R-77 missiles used by Indian MIG-29 and Rafale.
There are some other rumored changes, including the new infrared tracking system, new engine but nothing’s confirmed yet. The fighter’s new air inlets, however, indicate that it would come with the new engine. Currently, block 1 and 2 are using Russian RD-93, but it seems that it will come with more powerful RD33-MK which is fitted in advanced MiG-35 aircraft. The new aircraft not only enhance its export potential, but it would attract more buyers for Pakistan.
