The JF-17 is under consideration alongside the Tejas, produced by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, and the FA-50 Golden Eagle, made by South Korea’s Korea Aerospace Industries.
An accompanying compilation clip of Pakistan's missile test was unusual in that it showed the inert re-entry vehicle striking the target area, an aspect not always shown in such tests.
But under the present climate, it’s almost certain the U.S. won’t provide clearance for the onward supply of equipment, including the Ada corvette’s primary air defense system.
Pakistan and Russia have pledged to improve defense ties, but Moscow appears to be trying to balance its South Asia relations rather than abandon its traditional strategic partner India.
Pakistan’s Navy has kicked off a major exercise as it tries to modernize and expand to counter growing Indian naval power, as well as protect its maritime economy and trade links.
Pakistan is being further pushed into China’s embrace as a consequence of the U.S. State Department’s plan to cut military aid to Islamabad, analysts agree.