The JF-17 Thunder, known as the FC-1 Xiaolong ‘Fierce Dragon’ in China, is a fighter jet that incorporates components from several countries. Built through a joint venture between Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC), the aircraft serves as a cost-effective replacement for older models in Pakistan’s fleet.
Russian components play a significant role in the JF-17. Russia supplies engines for the jet, specifically the RD-93 variant of the Klimov RD-33 engine. These engines are also used in various Russian aircraft like the MiG-29 family. According to The Diplomat, “Notably, while JF-17 Block I and II variants are reportedly powered by a Chinese license-built Klimov RD-93MA turbofan engine, the Block III version is expected to receive the RD-93MA or Chinese WS-13 engine.”
British contributions come in the form of ejector seats. Martin Baker provides its PK16LE ejection seat for these jets. An incident was reported by Martin Baker: “On Wednesday 5th June 2024, a Pakistan Air Force Block 2 JF-17 aircraft crashed near the Jhang district. The pilot successfully ejected using the Martin-Baker PK16LE Seat.”
Italy contributes through Leonardo Defense Electronics which supplies Grifo S-7 interceptor fire control radars for these jets. Leonardo describes this radar system as having over 450 units sold and more than 100,000 flight hours.
Turkey’s involvement includes supplying targeting pods manufactured by Aselsan Inc., which have been exported to other countries such as Iraq and integrated into different aircraft models.
Pakistan handles much of the final assembly work at its Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra facility. This complex claims to hold “58% work share of JF-17 airframe co-production.”
China provides numerous avionics and systems for these jets with later versions possibly incorporating more Chinese technology such as new radar systems from Nanjing Research Institute of Electronics Technology and Leihua Electronic Technology Research Institute.
The multinational nature of this project underscores Pakistan’s strategic alliances and showcases collaboration across borders in military aviation technology.
