Pakistan, China launch joint production of JF-17B dual seat aircraft

Pakistan and China jointly launched the manufacturing of first prototype of JF-17B (Dual Seat Combat Fighter Aircraft) at an induction ceremony held in Chengdu Aerospace Corporation (CAC) Chengdu, China.

The occasion marked yet another milestone in the close co-operation during JF-17 aircraft development between Pakistan and China.

Air Marshal Muhammad Iqbal Chief Project Director JF-17, Project Management Office, Pakistan Air Force was the chief guest at the occasion.
The other participants at the occasion were President CAC, Vice President CATIC, Vice President CADI, senior representative AVIC, related Chinese personnel and PAF officials.

Speaking at the occasion, Air Marshal Muhammad Iqbal highlighted that dual seat aircraft is of great value for Pakistan Air Force in enhancing not only training value but also the operational capability.

The induction of dual seat JF-17B aircraft would also improve its market prospects in future.

He also thanked Chinese leadership for their continuous support in the design, development and manufacturing phases of the JF-17 development project.

Chinese leadership, while addressing the occasion, paid tribute to the higher authorities of Pakistan Air Force for operationalizing the aircraft and expressed their resolve to continue support for development work of JF-17 project.

JF-17B dual seat aircraft is likely to make its maiden flight by the end of this year. The aircraft would be formally inducted in PAF by April, 2017.