I mean doesn't the JF-17 have green primer applied on some areas indicating composites instead of standard aluminium? I would think this would decrease the weight of the air frame somewhat.
JF-17/FC-1 Fighter Aircraft thread
- Thread starter johnqh
- Start date
It's speculation at this point. Some features of the new block will add weight, others will decrease it, while also increasing thrust. We don't know yet where the Block III will net out, but I think it will end up with a 1:1 TWR in clean config. And that's the domain of maximum fun:
Well I was talking about the engine... but if it can keep the aircraft at the same ratio with all the upgrades, it's nice !
Dizasta1
Senior Member
A question regarding the RD-93MA, in relations to JF-17 Thunders .... Is it possible to outfit the engine, once it has been certified, on an existing platform? In other words, would it be possible to install the RD-93MA engine on to existing JF-17 Thunder Blocks-1/2/3 once the engine has been certified for operational use?
Since the engine controls are different, it is probably not worth the effort even if the external dimensions are same. Except maybe in case of major overhauls in the planes which still have lots of hours left even if the engine is past its service life and needs to be replaced anyway.
Isn't that the whole point of a Block-based program? It's supposed to upgrade the older blocks to an updated standard during overhaul. That's what's happening with the SLM program for the Super Hornets, they're being updated from Block II to III, similar to the MLU program for the Vipers. The Viper also got an alternative engine with the AFE program for the newer blocks (for the countries that decided to make the switch from P&W to GE.)
To some extent, yes, but sometimes the new stuff requires structural changes which are not easy to economically modify into existing airframes. For example, Tranche 1 Eurofighters are almost 'toxic waste' as they can't be upgraded and almost nobody wants them. Similarly, structural difference between Gripen A and C are pretty big and it takes an expensive rebuild to make A into C. Yet another example, although bit of a special case, is F-16 Block 60 where changes were so major that it would not have been possible to upgrade older F-16's to Block 60 standards.
I don't know what's the situation regarding JF-17, I am sure Block 1 & 2 can and will be upgraded to some degree at least but remains to be seen if it's possible or economical to go full monty Block 3.
I don't know what's the situation regarding JF-17, I am sure Block 1 & 2 can and will be upgraded to some degree at least but remains to be seen if it's possible or economical to go full monty Block 3.
I haven't seen this paint/marking scheme on a JF-17B before. I wonder if this is genuine or possibly photoshopped. Does anyone know?
Could it be a JF-17BM ?