Following the terrorist attacks that took place in the Jammu and Kashmir region at the end of April, both India and Pakistan are on high alert amid the possibility of an armed conflict. In response to this scenario, the armed forces of both nuclear powers have been conducting displays of military capability, alongside the mobilization and deployment of troops and equipment to their respective border areas.
This includes the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), which has been preparing and placing its main combat assets on high readiness. In recent days, particular attention has been drawn to the JF-17 Block III, as a promotional video confirmed that the PAF has successfully integrated these fighters with the Chinese-origin PL-15 long-range air-to-air missile.
The JF-17 Thunder is the result of industrial cooperation between Pakistan and China. For Pakistan, the introduction of this new combat aircraft has served to replace a variety of older, Chinese-made platforms. On China’s side, the FC-1 Xiaolong offers a combat aircraft option for countries unable to access the more advanced fighters produced by the Asian giant, such as the Chengdu J-10.
Since entering service with the Pakistan Air Force, the JF-17 Thunder has steadily evolved, incorporating greater capabilities. The most recent variant, the Block III, has been newly introduced and features upgraded equipment, notably a new AESA radar—reportedly the KLJ-7A.
This is a significant enhancement, as the new fire-control radar is claimed to have a detection range of up to 200 kilometers and can simultaneously track up to 10 targets. This capability enables the integration of beyond-visual-range (BVR) weaponry.
Amid tensions with India and aiming to showcase its capabilities, the Pakistan Air Force released a video on its social media platforms officially confirming that the JF-17 Thunder has now been integrated with the Chinese-supplied PL-15 air-to-air missile.
The PL-15 (NATO reporting name: CH-AA-10 Abaddon) is one of the primary long-range air-to-air missiles in service with China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). It is deployed on key platforms such as the J-10, J-16, and J-20, and is also expected to be integrated with the upcoming stealth fighter J-35.
Comparable in performance to the most advanced variants of the U.S.-made AMRAAM, the PL-15’s exact specifications remain classified. However, analysts estimate its range to be up to 200 kilometers, depending on the version.
While official details remain scarce, it is presumed that the Pakistan Air Force has acquired the export version, designated PL-15E, which likely has a reduced range. The missile’s integration is not limited to the JF-17 Thunder; it is also expected to equip the newly acquired J-10CE fighters, procured from Beijing in a record-fast acquisition and deployment process.
*Cover photo used for illustrative purposes – credit: The STRATCOM Bureau
