The JF-17 is slated to become the backbone of Pakistan Air Force (PAF), complementing the F-16s as well as the J-10Bs (on order) within its aircraft ranks and is also expected to fill the duties of aerial reconnaissance, ground-attack and interception.
It made its first flight in August 2003. The basic flight testing was completed in 2007. On 23 March 2007 it was formally presented to the nation as a Pakistan Day gift .