China Ready to Export JF-17 in Large-scale
In the next five years, China intends to sell up to 300 aircraft JF-17 Thunder fighter to several countries in Africa and the Middle East. The plane was in demand because they are cheap, the technology that is not much different from Western or Russian-made aircraft.
Thus affirmed the President of China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC) Ma Zhiping, as quoted by defense magazine Jane's Defence Weekly February 22, 2012 edition. JF-17 Thunder (also known as FC-1 Xiaolong) made jointly by the Chengdu Aerospace Corporation (CAC) of China and Pakisan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) from Pakistan.
Ma said, the ability of JF-17 is equivalent to the F-16 Fighting Falcon Lockheed Martin of the U.S., but with a much cheaper price. Some analysts estimate the price of JF-17 is only one-third of the price of the F-16.
Until now China has not entered a single-engine aircraft in the Air Force contract competition in other countries. Aircraft sales likely will be done in the form of direct military sales (direct military sale) between countries.
Several countries have expressed interest to buy this aircraft, among others, are Sudan, Azerbaijan, Zimbabwe, and Serbia. While Bangladesh, Iran, and Nigeria was mentioned as potential buyers.
PAC and Party Pakistan Air Force is currently developing the design of JF-17 Block 2, which will be equipped with the ability to refuel in the air and develop a two-seater version.
