Pakistan is set to acquire two sqadrons of F-7mg fighter jets from China to beef up its ageing air force and match India's air strength.
The first batch of the new fighters would arrive by March, according to media reports while diplomatic sources in Islamabad said that a dozen jets have already arrived. However, there was no official confirmation yet.
The news of the acquisition of the aircraft comes amidst increasing tension between New Delhi and Islamabad after Dec 13 terrorist attack on Parliament, which India alleges took place with the support of Pakistan's ISI. The report also coincides with the ongoing visit of Pakistan President Gen Pervez Musharraf to Beijing.
Orders for purchase of the aircraft was placed early this year. Under the agreement, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) would acquire two squadrons, about 46 planes to add teeth to its air force, which is currently managing with a fleet of old F-16 fighters, F-7p and reconditioned French mirrage aircraft.
F-7 mgs, a single-seat, single engine light aircraft, considered to be a relatively well equipped modern fighter jet would be fitted with the new grifo airborne radar system called pulse doppler frequency agility radar made in collaboration with Italy.
The grifo radars can track and scan enemy aircraft and will match the current generation of fighter aircraft being acquired by India, sources said.
Bureau Report
