Why the PAF Must Rethink Its Fighter Training Strategy

Recently, Hongdu Aircraft Industry Group (HAIG) test flew a new lead-in fighter-trainer (LIFT), a twin-tail, twin-engine configuration with swept-back wings and reinforced landing gear, designed for carrier landings and intended for the People’s Liberation Army Navy Air Force (PLANAF). This would be HAIG’s third trainer program, following the L-15 and K-8, the latter of which is in service with the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).

However, as of 2023, the PAF was also planning to procure the L-15B to meet its own LIFT requirements. Granted, the PAF’s perspective of dedicated LIFT aircraft swung in different directions at different points.

In the early to mid-2010s, the PAF leadership viewed LIFTs as relatively expensive for the training role and believed that it could leverage the twin-seat JF-17B instead. However, in 2018, PAF planners changed their minds, signalling that they not only wanted a dedicated LIFT but preferred one with a multi-mode radar, a tactical data-link (TDL) system, and afterburning engines.

By late 2023, the HAIG L-15B had arrived in Pakistan for testing, and since then, no reports have been made about a deal being signed. Did the PAF change its mind (again)? While a possibility, other priorities (e.g., growing the air defence system) were earmarked over the LIFT. However, this author contends that the PAF will pursue LIFT aircraft; the evolving nature of air warfare demands it now more than ever. Moreover, the emergence of new threats (e.g., drones and loitering munitions) and issues (e.g., persistent low-intensity threat landscapes on the Afghan border) may merit one.

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