China Showcases J-10C Jet After Pakistan’s Combat Success Against India

News Desk

Islamabad: Following Pakistan’s successful deployment of the Chinese-made J-10C fighter jet, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV aired a documentary highlighting the jet’s origins and operational achievements.

The program emphasized the role of the J-10C in recent Pakistan-India hostilities, stating that Pakistan used the aircraft to shoot down several Indian fighter jets, including three French-built Rafales, during a dogfight on May 7. This engagement marked the first combat victory for the J-10CE, the export version of the jet, according to a Chinese military report aired over the weekend.

On May 7, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar informed lawmakers that J-10C jets had downed three Indian Rafales along with other aircraft. While a French official confirmed the loss of one Rafale operated by India, the Indian government has yet to publicly acknowledge the incident.

The Chinese documentary attributes the jet’s success in Kashmir to its advanced capabilities, noting that it shot down multiple enemy aircraft without suffering any losses.

Development and Capabilities of the J-10C

The J-10C is a 4.5-generation, single-engine, multi-role fighter jet developed by China. According to the documentary, its development began in the 1980s when China recognized a technological gap with Western and Soviet air forces. The original design was crafted in 1982 by Song Wencong, chief designer at the 611 Institute (now the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group).

Chinese engineers faced and overcame significant technical challenges, the documentary states, achieving major advances in aviation without relying on existing foreign designs. The first prototype was completed in 1997, which Chinese experts described as a “miracle in the history of air defence.” The J-10C features an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, reduced radar cross-section, advanced avionics, and long-range PL-15 missiles. It was inducted into China’s air force in 2003, and its latest variant was later sold to Pakistan.

According to Chinese military analyst Zhang Xuefeng, the J-10 project enabled China to master cutting-edge aerodynamic designs, flight control technologies, and the development of advanced turbofan engines.

International Recognition and Sales

Currently showcased at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in Malaysia, the J-10C is drawing global attention for its advanced technology and combat performance.

China remains Pakistan’s top arms supplier, providing 81% of its defence imports between 2020 and 2024. In addition to the J-10C, Pakistan also procures PL-15 missiles and the JF-17 Thunder from China.