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Many Pakistani defence enthusiasts keep asking:
How does J-10C compare with PAF F-16?
Will J-10C bring much needed air superiority platform to counter IAF, currently that job rests on F-16?
Is it really needed when JF-17 Block-III is around the corner with similar specs?
1/8
How does J-10C compare with PAF F-16?
Will J-10C bring much needed air superiority platform to counter IAF, currently that job rests on F-16?
Is it really needed when JF-17 Block-III is around the corner with similar specs?
1/8
These seemingly simple questions are very difficult to answer in context of Pakistan, its troubled history with F-16, use of F-16s in future war like situation post Indo-Pacific push in which India is an indispensable ally of USA. Gloomy future of F-16 fleet & upgrades 2/8
This is diplomatic and geopolitical scenario when it comes to F-16s and their use against India. Its an issue otherwise DG ISPR wouldn’t have said “No F-16 were used” or AVM Parach carefully diverting same question through clever use of pun. Now lets see platform v platform 3/8
First of all there is no medium category fighter like F-16 nor will be. Its legacy,combat records & cost of flying/maintenance are well known. Its evolution is unparalleled & variety of weapons/roles on offer (not in case of PAF). J-10C is 2nd evolutionary stage of crude J-10 4/8
OTOH J-10C gives you full load of weapons, unlimited upgrades, no worry of parts/supplies in case of war with zero diplomatic repercussions. At the end of the day territorial defence is key element of any functional state but in case of Pakistan damage can be irreversible 5/8
J-10C covers all aspects when it comes to your top fighter. It can engage best that IAF can throw with powerful AESA radar & PL-15 BVRAAM, perform SEAD/DEAD role with YJ-91 ARM & similar missile has a variant that can be used for anti-ship role. WS-10B engine is another plus 6/8
If 
had thriving economy & geopolitical alignment with West then Viper all the way. Unfortunately thats not the case nor seems like this will change any time soon. Even when we had strategic alignment with West esp US, we know the results of our compulsions/insufficiency 7/8
had thriving economy & geopolitical alignment with West then Viper all the way. Unfortunately thats not the case nor seems like this will change any time soon. Even when we had strategic alignment with West esp US, we know the results of our compulsions/insufficiency 7/8
If there are funds for new aircraft then PAF should go for it. I believe there is role for J-10C in shape of replacement of Mirage-III/V for stirke/maritime roles also should carry two Raad-II for doomsday scenario. J-10C will provide much needed boost to small fleet of F-16s 8/8
PS. JF-17 isn’t in same league as J-10C even if gets export variant of PL-15 & AESA radar. Its a light category fighter that pushes towards medium category. J-10C is even bigger than F-16 Block-52+ and hosts much bigger power plant WS-10B to power bigger AESA radar and avionics
