JF-17 Thunder vs Tejas: How Pakistan and India’s Indigenous Fighter Jets Compare in Modern Air Combat
Reuters
Pakistan has recently intensified its push to promote the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet on the global stage, projecting it as a flexible and cost-effective multirole aircraft. Islamabad is exploring defence cooperation with several countries, including Bangladesh, as part of a broader effort to expand its defence exports. The campaign reflects Pakistan’s confidence in the JF-17’s operational role and its ambition to strengthen its position in the global arms market.
India, meanwhile, has been focusing on strengthening its air power through indigenous development. The Light Combat Aircraft Tejas has steadily entered service with the Indian Air Force, marking a significant step in New Delhi’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Both aircraft represent national pride and long-term defence ambitions, making them a frequent subject of comparison among defence analysts in South Asia.
To assess which jet offers a stronger advantage in modern aerial combat, it is important to look closely at performance, technology, weapons, and long-term operational value.
JF-17 Thunder vs Tejas: An Overview
Reuters
The JF-17 Thunder is a fourth-generation multirole fighter jointly developed by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group. It is designed to replace older aircraft in the Pakistan Air Force while also serving as an export-friendly platform.
Tejas, officially known as the Light Combat Aircraft, is designed by India’s Aeronautical Development Agency and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. It is intended to modernise the Indian Air Force fleet and reduce reliance on foreign fighter jets.
This comparison focuses on the Tejas Mk1A and JF-17 Block III, the most advanced versions currently in service or induction.
Engine and Performance
Tejas Mk1A is powered by a single General Electric F404 engine producing around 85 kN of thrust with afterburner. The aircraft can reach speeds of about Mach 1.6 and benefits from a lighter airframe, giving it strong agility and a high thrust-to-weight ratio.
The JF-17 Block III uses the Klimov RD-93 engine, generating approximately 91 kN of thrust. While it also reaches Mach 1.6, the aircraft is heavier than Tejas, which affects manoeuvrability in close combat situations.
In pure performance terms, JF-17 has slightly higher thrust, but Tejas gains an edge in agility due to its lighter design.
Radar, Avionics and Sensors
Tejas Mk1A features advanced avionics and is equipped with the indigenous Uttam AESA radar. Earlier variants used Israeli radars, but newer systems provide better target tracking, sensor fusion and electronic warfare support. The aircraft also includes a fully digital quadruplex fly-by-wire system and a modern glass cockpit.
JF-17 Block III is fitted with the Chinese KLJ-7A AESA radar. While capable, defence assessments suggest it offers comparatively shorter detection ranges and less advanced sensor integration.
Overall, Tejas is widely considered superior in avionics sophistication and situational awareness.
Weapons and Payload Capability
Tejas Mk1A can carry a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons, including the indigenous Astra missile, precision-guided bombs and rockets. Future upgrades are expected to integrate advanced stand-off weapons such as BrahMos-NG. Its payload capacity stands at around 5,300 kg.
JF-17 Block III supports various Chinese-origin air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, including PL-series weapons. Its payload capacity is lower at approximately 3,700 kg, though it remains flexible for export customers.
Tejas holds an advantage due to its higher payload and access to modern indigenous and allied weapon systems.
Range and Operational Life
Tejas has a combat radius of about 1,000 km and a service life of up to 9,000 flight hours. Extensive use of carbon composites reduces radar signature and enhances durability.
JF-17 Block III has a combat radius of roughly 900 km and an estimated operational life of around 4,000 flight hours, with more reliance on conventional aluminium alloys.
In terms of longevity and lifecycle value, Tejas clearly leads.
Tejas Mk1A vs JF-17 Block III: Key Comparison
| Feature | Tejas Mk1A (India) | JF-17 Block III (Pakistan) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Indigenous (HAL/ADA) | Joint Venture (PAC/China) |
| Generation | 4.5 Generation | 4.5 Generation |
| Engine | GE F404-IN20 | Klimov RD-93MA |
| Max Speed | Mach 1.6 | Mach 1.6 |
| Max Payload | ~5,300 kg | ~3,700 kg |
| Radar | Uttam AESA | KLJ-7A AESA |
| Airframe | 45% composites | Mostly aluminium |
| Service Life | ~9,000 hours | ~4,000 hours |
Which Fighter Has the Edge?
Both fighters play important roles for their respective air forces. The JF-17 Thunder stands out as a more economical option with better export reach and slightly higher engine thrust. Tejas Mk1A, however, demonstrates a stronger technological edge with superior avionics, radar systems, payload capacity, agility and long-term operational value.
In a direct one-on-one assessment of modern combat capability, Tejas is generally considered to hold the advantage, while the JF-17 remains competitive as a cost-effective multirole platform.
Our Thoughts
The comparison between JF-17 Thunder and Tejas highlights two very different defence strategies. Pakistan has focused on affordability, export potential and rapid induction, making the JF-17 a practical choice for air forces with limited budgets. India, on the other hand, has prioritised technological depth, future upgrades and long-term sustainability through Tejas.
While JF-17’s global sales give Pakistan a diplomatic and commercial edge, Tejas reflects India’s growing confidence in indigenous defence manufacturing. As both aircraft continue to evolve, their real impact will depend on upgrades, pilot training and integration with broader air defence systems. In the long run, the Tejas programme may play a larger role in shaping India’s aerospace ecosystem, while JF-17 is likely to remain Pakistan’s most visible defence export.
