A major transformation is being seen in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). It is utilizing strategic planning and new technology to grow stronger, even with the limited resources available. It is currently the third strongest air force in Asia. This development started with a domestically designed JF-17 Thunder. The PAF is now on its way to inducting high-tech J-31 stealth fighters. It has emerged because of a coherent strategy of developing local competency, establishing major alliances, and modernizing its warfighting doctrine to meet the needs of contemporary threats.
The JF-17 Thunder: Pillar of Strategic Independence
Its partnership with China in the JF-17 program is a key element of its effort to provide the government with cost-effective but advanced air power. The fleet is now composed of more than 450 fighter aircraft. The jet has undergone three major blocks of development. Blocks I and II were the replacements of the old Mirages and F-7 and provided modern BVR (Beyond Visual Range) combat capability and multiple weapons. Block III represents a massive upgrade and is equipped with 4.5-generation capabilities. It is also getting international momentum. Azerbaijan’s payment of $4.6 billion to buy 40 jets demonstrates the increasing global confidence and attracts investments into further improvements. The next JF-17 PFX/Alpha is also likely to be equipped with even more powerful Gan-based radars, improved stealth, passive sensors, and next-generation missiles with ramjets.
The Fifth-Generation Imperative: J-31 and Beyond
The PAF recognizes that even 4.5-generation fighter jets cannot match the capabilities of true stealth fighters. It is pursuing a multi-layered strategy by adopting fifth-generation features to stay balanced. One immediate step is the induction of the Chinese-made Shenyang J-31. Pakistan will be the first country outside China to operate this twin-engine stealth fighter. The J-31 is capable of conducting deep strike missions, such as Suppression and Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD/DEAD) in high-threat zones. It features a sensor fusion system that combines radar, electro-optical tracking, and electronic warfare into a single cockpit display. This makes it possible for the aircraft to act as a command node in battles against older jets. The J-31 also gives the PAF a strategic advantage over regional competitors who lack stealth technology.
Source: Defence.In
Outside China, Pakistan is working with Turkey on the KAAN program, which may be named the “Iqbal” when in service with the PAF. This broadens Pakistan’s options and strengthens its industrial ties with a key ally. It also adds resilience to its fifth-generation plans. Finally, Project AZM signifies Pakistan’s long-term ambition to develop sovereign fifth-generation fighter expertise through the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex.
Integrating the Future: Drones, Networks, and Force Multiplication
The PAF’s modernization goes beyond manned fighters. It is embracing technologies essential for future warfare. One major area is Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) and loyal wingmen. With MALE/HALE drones, Pakistan operates one of Asia’s largest and most diverse drone fleets. These serve as expendable platforms for risky missions and boost the combat reach of fighters like the J-10CE and J-31. Another key area is network-centric warfare. The PAF’s Link-17 securely connects fighters, AWACS, air defenses, and naval units. This allows real-time coordination, even in jammed or GPS-denied environments. It enables smooth target sharing and combined strikes across platforms. Electronic warfare (EW) is also a core focus.
Pakistan has built one of the region’s most capable AEW&C and electronic warfare fleets, surpassing countries like India and Israel in airborne early warning assets. Its diverse inventory, featuring Erieye, ZDK-03, and potentially KJ-500 aircraft, reflects a serious doctrine focused on real-time ISR, EW, and remote targeting support. Electronic warfare is treated as a core combat capability, not a secondary tool. Pakistan has demonstrated this in operations like the 2019 Kashmir air battle and the 2025 standoff, using EW to jam communications, spoof GPS, and neutralize enemy systems. With ongoing AI-based EW development at NASTP, Pakistan is positioning itself as a leader in modern electronic and information warfare.
Source: Medium
Overcoming Challenges: Strategic Partnerships and Indigenous Innovation
Through strong partnerships and local innovation, Pakistan is procuring and modernizing its defense capabilities, even amid budget constraints. Its close ties with China ensure access to advanced technology and quick support, as seen during the 2025 standoff. Cooperation with Turkey expands its defense options. Other allies, such as Azerbaijan and Gulf states, also offer diplomatic backing and potential material assistance. Domestically, Pakistan is doing more than just assembling parts; it designs and produces key systems, including AESA radars, cruise missiles like Raad and Raad-II, smart bomb kits (REK), electronic warfare equipment, and even its own Link-17 datalink. Its National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP) leads in emerging fields like AI, cyber tools, and aerospace systems.
Conclusion
The PAF’s progression from the JF-17 to the upcoming J-31 exemplifies strategic foresight. It demonstrates how a middle power can develop advanced air capabilities through targeted local development, strong international partnerships, and modern doctrines based on networks and unmanned systems. The JF-17 remains a dependable and cost-effective backbone. Complementing it are upgraded UCAVs and advanced jets like the J-31 and Turkey’s KAAN. This balanced mix is steadily guiding the PAF toward its goal of a fully fifth-generation fleet by 2047. The outcome is not just a stronger air defense but also an increasing ability to project power and technology. Pakistan now ranks as Asia’s third-strongest air force and serves as a strategic model for other Global South nations. With hardened bases, combat experience, and a clear development roadmap, the PAF is well-positioned to remain a formidable defender of Pakistan’s skies for decades.
