The JF-17 Thunder is the result of a joint program between Pakistan and China to develop a modern, affordable, multi-role fighter to replace Pakistan´s large fleet or Mirage III fighters , Nanchang A-5 attack aricraft and Chengdu J-7 fighters.
The first prototype was rolled out on May 2003 and transfered to the Chengdu Flight test Center to be prepared for flight tests.
After several design modifications, PAC (Pakistan Aernoautical Complex) began manufacturing parts on January 2008. Final assembly of the firts JF-17 in Pakistan began on 30 June 2009.
The first JF-17 squadron (No.26 Black Spiders) officially entered operational service on 18 February 2010.
So far, the JF-17 Thunder is in service only with the Pakistan Air Force, with many countries, mainly in the Middle East and South America expressing interest in purchasing the JF-17.
THE KIT.
This one of the best models produced by Trumpeter in 1/72 scale to date. It comes with beautiful engraved panels lines, fine rivet detail, very nicely detailed cockpit and ejection seat, photo-etched parts and a lot of optional weapons and fuel tanks.
The decal sheet comes with options to build one “standard” gray Pakistan Air Force aircraft and a very attractive aircraft painted in the colors of the national flags of China and Pakistan used during the Pakistan “Joint Services” parade of 2007.
Twin Suns 