PAF will induct 36 CF-20 aircraft in its fleet by 2010

Pakistan Air Force (PAF) will induct 36, CF-20, high-tech combat aircrafts in its fleet by 2010. These, 21st century, 5th generation, aircrafts of Chinese origin will provide an extra punch to the air force after induction, said Air Chief Marshal Tanvir Mahmood Ahmed.
He was answering to the questions after a briefing to the participants of National Media Workshop, organised by National Defence University (NDU) at the Air Headquarters on Wednesday. The modalities regarding to acquire two squadrons of the aircraft for the PAF are being discussed, Tanvir said, adding that the CF-20 aircraft has been selected after hectic and lengthy deliberations, besides considering a long list of the similar category aircraft of various origins.
He said the engine of the aircraft would be manufactured by Russia, which is based on most modern technique called reverse technology. He said that first squadron of indigenously developed fighter aircraft with the help of China, JF-17 (Thunder) would be inducted in the PAF fleet in the first quarter of 2009, enhancing agility of the air force, whereby increasing its reach beyond 350 nautical miles.
He said that after great hardships, the PAF has acquired the night-war capability, due to which the country's defence has been made further impregnable. This capability has brought the PAF among a few air forces around the globe, which have the ability to carry out war operations during night times. "This capability had become imperative to be achieved especially in the prevailing global and regional situations," PAF chief said.
He said that the roll out of first batch of F-16 aircraft for Pakistan would be held in USA in January next, where he himself would be present to witness the auspicious occasion. The US would supply improved version of F-16 aircraft to be inducted in the PAF by 2010. In the surveillance field, he said the Swedish company would supply three Saab surveillance aircraft to PAF by September next year while contract for acquiring four AWACS systems from China has already been signed.
He said despite economic constraints, all the important programmes of PAF are being run uninterrupted with the aim to make it a real force to meet the challenges. In reply to another question, Air Chief Marshal Tanvir said that UAV technology was achieved earlier and drones are being manufactured indigenously.
Earlier, the participants were given a detailed briefing by the Vice-Chief of Air Staff covering various aspects. Senior officers of PAF and National Defence University were also present.