Air Marshal Ahmer Shehzad, Chairman PAC, Kamra, in his welcome address highlighted the salient features of the project. Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC) also signed an agreement for co-production of Chinese commercial aircraft.
Highlighting the time-tested friendship between China and Pakistan, the Chinese ambassador said the JF-17 is a testimony of Sino-Pak friendship and mutual cooperation.
Addressing on the occasion, the Air Chief congratulated PAC and CATIC on successful accomplishment of 2019 production target and completing first 08 dual-seat JF-17 aircraft in record time of five months. He further said that serial production of dual-seat variant is a landmark development for JF-17 programme and a true manifestation of everlasting friendship between both the friendly countries. Furthermore, he said that
JF-17 Thunder is the backbone of PAF which has been battle proven during operation Swift Retort. Later in the day, the Air Chief also inaugurated JF-17 Dual-Seat Integration facility at Avionics Production Factory, Kamra. The facility will enable PAF to integrate avionics and weapon systems of choice with JF-17 aircraft, ultimately providing the much needed self reliance and operational flexibility.