Iraq wants to order upgraded Chinese-Pakistani JF-17C Thunder fighter jets with at least $1.1bn worth of ammunition

In the early autumn of 2021, information about Iraq's interest in JF-17 Thunder fighter jets surfaced. Nearly two years later, the Arabian Peninsula country is closer to buying the aircraft.

Here's What We Know

Iraq had been considering buying French Rafale jets. However, things are now moving towards signing a contract with Pakistan for the purchase of JF-17C Thunder Block III level fighter jets.

Baghdad is ready to invest a minimum of $1.1bn in the purchase of the Chinese-Pakistani-made aircraft. The deal will include 12 fighter-bombers with an option for six more units, ammunition, spare parts and related equipment.

The JF-17 Thunder is a fourth-generation aircraft. It is also known as the Chengdu FC-1 Xiaolong. The fighter made its maiden flight in 2003 and was inducted into service four years later. Production is carried out by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and Chengdu Aircraft Corporation.

The JF-17C Block III version received a new avionics suite and an active electronically scanned radar. It took to the skies for the first time in 2019. The powerplant is represented by a Russian-made RD-93 engine. The maximum flight speed is 1,910 kilometres per hour (M=1.6).

Source: opex360