The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force is considering to acquire the Pakistani-made JF-17 Thunder fighter jets to gradually replace its ageing F-14 and MiG-29 fighter jets.
According to Muzammil Hatami, a top official of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the deal with Pakistan to procure JF-17 Thunder fighter jets was arrived at during the IDEAS 2018 exhibition.
Iran has been in search of replacement for its ageing third generation fighter jets and after many years of financial and technological hitches, Iran trying to rebuild its air force.
Before at this decision to acquire JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, Iran was about to sign a contract with Russia to buy the Sukhoi Su-30SM fighter jets, but because of the influence of the United States and several European countries, the deal never took place.
The option of buying JF-17 Thunder fighter jets is perfect for Iran and the signing of the contract is expected to take place in the near future.
JF-17 Thunder is a multirole fighter manufactured jointly by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) of China.
The JF-17 can be used for aerial reconnaissance, ground attack and aircraft interception.
