Analysis - New Missile Systems for JF-17 Thunder

By Shahzad Masood Roomi

The evolution of Pak-China joint venture in military aviation, JF-17 Thunder, continues as two new missile systems made their debut at Paris Air Show where PAF also secured very first export order for Thunder. It seems that latest additions to the arsenal of JF-17 Thunder are focused on enhancing the strike capabilities of this fighter jet. Both these missiles system made their first appearances at Paris Air Show 2015 where JF-17 Thunder made its very first appearance.  

First weapon system is the C-705KD missile which is an IIR/TV-guided air launched ground-attack version of C-705 that was revealed at the 2012 Zhuhai airshow. C-705 is a planer wing derivative of the C-701/704 Family which are similar in general outlook and performance to French Exocet family, available with a range of active radar seekers and electro-optical terminal seekers.C-705 has a range of A Pakistani source said up to four C-705KDs could be carried by the JF-17. Before Pakistan, the Indonesian Navy has equipped its newly developed Sampari-class KCR-60M-class missile attack craft with C-705 anti-ship missiles as well. 

The second new weapon displayed with the JF-17 for the first time is the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC) CM-102 anti-radiation missile. It was first revealed at the 2014 Zhuhai show, it has an advertised range of 100 km. A Pakistani source noted that other versions could have 50% to 70% further range. Prbably, this version would be the one which Pakistan will get as PAF already has a anti-radiation weapon with 100 KM range i.e. Brazilian MAR-1 which reportedly has been integrated with the PAF's Thunders aircraft already.

According to well placed sources, a new AESA radar is under development in China right now for planned Block-III configuration of Thunder fighter jet. Once completed, a new wave of Chinese missile integration with Thunder would be seen. This would possibly include new generation WVR and BVR weapons.

ANALYSIS:

The growing strike capabilities of JF-17 Thunder clearly shows the prevailing strategic thinking of PAF and inclusion of Thunder in Pakistan Navy's aviation wing. PAF considers growing Indian maritime capabilities a serious threat and JF-17 in Pakistan Navy is considering deployment of air power as a counter strategy in which, along with other aerial platforms, JF-17 Thunder would play a critical role. This assertion is further endorsed by the fact that earlier, C-803 anti-ship cruise missile have also been integrated onto Thunders. It looks like, PAF/PN would deploy JF-17 Thunder in air sea battle in split roles. PAF escorting PN fighters carrying anti-ship payloads.