Is Iraq Purchasing JF-17 Thunder from Pakistan?

Reports suggest that Pakistan has achieved a significant feat by securing a deal to supply 12 JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets to the Iraqi Air Force. This agreement positions Iraq as the fourth or fifth customer of the JF-17 fighter jets, pending finalization. This milestone closely follows Pakistan’s successful negotiation of another substantial deal to provide 12 MFI-17 Super Mushshak trainer aircraft to Zimbabwe.

Citing sources within the Pakistan Air Force, The Nation reported that Pakistan has clinched a deal worth US $1.8 billion with Baghdad. This encompasses the supply of 12 units each of the MFI Mushshak trainer and JF-17 fighter aircraft. The agreement stems from a significant defense cooperation pact between Pakistan and Iraq, which was established during discussions between the Chiefs of the Air Forces of both countries at the Ministry of Defense.

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Iraqi representatives, including high-ranking officials from the Defense Ministry, were engaged in the negotiations. The Iraqi Air Force’s previous acquisition of Mushshak aircraft in 2023 influenced its decision to procure a second tranche from Pakistan.

The MFI-17 Super Mushshak, recognized for its lightweight and sturdy design, is a versatile aircraft used for training purposes. It meets US FAR 23 standards and is capable of operating from short, unprepared airstrips.

Following the delivery of additional Mushshak trainer aircraft to Iraq, Pakistan plans to supply twelve JF-Thunder Block III fighter jets, with technical specifications currently being discussed.

In the global market, the JF-17 and India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) have competed for export orders. While the LCA has yet to secure any, the sale of JF-17 to the Iraqi Air Force marks its fourth international customer, following previous acquisitions by Nigeria, Myanmar, and Azerbaijan.

Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar has reportedly reassured Iraqi defense officials regarding the technical capabilities of the JF-17 aircraft. Iraqi officials are expected to visit Pakistan to inspect the manufacturing process of these aircraft at Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra.

The JF-17 Thunder, jointly developed by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corp, features a Chinese airframe, Western avionics, and a Russian engine. With over 125 aircraft in service, the JF-17 serves as the backbone of the PAF, utilized for various missions including airstrikes against terrorists.

Since its induction in 2007, the JF-17 Thunder has undergone multiple upgrades. PAC Kamra has delivered nearly 120 JF-17 Block I and II fighter jets to the PAF. With its impressive capabilities, including a service ceiling of 50,000 feet and a top speed of approximately 1,200 mph, the JF-17 is equipped for various tasks, including aerial interception and ground assault, boasting a payload capacity of around 7,000 pounds and armed with a twin-barrel 23 mm autocannon.