Pakistan Plans 4.5 Gen Upgrade for JF-17 Fighter with New PFX Version

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The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has showcased a model of its future fighter jet, the JF-17 PFX (Pakistan Fighter Experimental), at the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024 in Karachi.

The event concluded on November 22, marking the first public unveiling of the next-generation aircraft.

According to the PAF, the JF-17 PFX is a 4.5-generation fighter jet being developed in collaboration with the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and China's Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC). The aircraft is expected to be ready by the end of the decade, with enhanced capabilities compared to earlier JF-17 variants.

Senior officials at IDEAS 2024 were quoted as saying by multiple reports that the PFX would feature locally developed Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar systems and carry long-range air-to-air missiles (AAMs) such as China’s PL-15. Pakistan has already armed its JF-17C Block III jets with PL-15s.

The PFX's twin-engine design enhances maneuverability and payload capacity, while composite materials are expected to lower its radar signature.

The PFX program builds on the success of the JF-17 Block III, which introduced improved maneuverability, extended range, and avionics. The Block III also utilizes composite materials to reduce its radar cross-section and improve stealth. Currently, 58% of JF-17 components are locally made by PAC, with plans to achieve full production autonomy for the PFX.

The unveiling of the JF-17 PFX underscores Pakistan's focus on countering regional challenges, including India's development of the Tejas MkII fighter jet. Both nations are investing in advanced aerial technologies to maintain a strategic balance in South Asia.